U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra is potentially weighing a run for California governor in 2026, according to a Politico report.
Becerra, a Democrat and former California attorney general, has reportedly had conversations in recent weeks in which he indicated to fellow Democratic officials and operatives that he would leave Washington after the November election and join the race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2026.
However, the secretary has not yet confirmed nor denied the purported plans.
California’s 2026 gubernatorial race is already crowded with hopeful candidates. In January, San Diegan Toni Atkins announced her own campaign for governor.
In 2026, we have the opportunity to elect a Governor who understands, and has lived, the challenges facing Californians struggling to get by and trying to get ahead,” said Atkins during her announcement. “I am ready to be Governor.”
Other announced candidates for governor include fellow Democrats Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Democratic Party vice-chair Betty Yee, State Superintendent of Instruction Tony Thurmond. Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta and former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa have also been mentioned as potential candidates.
Newsom is termed out and is widely expected to be a candidate for the Democratic nomination for president in 2028.
