In a highly uncertain California governor's race, Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton are leading in early returns, with Tom Steyer trailing. The election, marked by affordability concerns and national implications, could take days to finalize.
Key facts: Becerra surged from low polling to lead; Hilton, endorsed by Trump, promises tax cuts and deregulation; Steyer self-funded $213 million but lags; three other Democrats conceded. The winner will succeed term-limited Gov.
Gavin Newsom and face a state grappling with cost of living, gas prices, and federal cuts.