Democrat Xavier Becerra leads Republican Steve Hilton 52%-31% in the California governor's race, according to a new UC Berkeley IGS/L.A. Times poll.
- Becerra has strong support from Democrats (82%) and independents (43%). - Hilton is backed by 84% of Republicans but faces headwinds from Trump's unpopularity in California.
- Becerra's rise followed Eric Swalwell's scandal-driven exit, and he outperformed billionaire Tom Steyer among progressives. The general election is set for November, with Becerra holding a significant advantage due to California's Democratic lean.