A shakeup in California’s 2026 gubernatorial race is rapidly reshaping the field, with former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary and California Attorney General Xavier Becerra emerging as one of the biggest beneficiaries. In the wake of Eric Swalwell’s abrupt exit amid controversy, multiple new polls show Becerra surging into contention, gaining as much as 9 to 11 points in just weeks and breaking out of single-digit support.
According to surveys from EVITARUS (April 20), Gudelunas Strategies, and Kreate Strategies, Becerra has climbed to roughly 13%–15% of the vote, placing him in a tight cluster of candidates competing for a runoff position. The Gudelunas poll shows Becerra tied with billionaire Democrat Tom Steyer at 15%, while the Kreate poll places him at 10%, tied with Rep. Katie Porter. An additional Emerson College/Inside California Politics poll similarly shows Becerra gaining ground, reflecting a broader upward trend across the field. Republican Steve Hilton continues to lead in most surveys, polling between the mid-to-high teens and 20%. Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Porter remain close behind, underscoring how fluid the race has become.
Political analysts say Swalwell’s departure has opened a lane for voters—particularly Democrats and independents—seeking a steady, experienced alternative. Becerra’s favorability ratings appear to reflect that shift, with some polling showing a significant net-positive standing among non-Republican voters. Becerra’s campaign has embraced the momentum, describing it as a sign of growing grassroots support and renewed voter confidence driven by community engagement.
That momentum is also being reflected financially, with reports indicating a corresponding surge in fundraising as new supporters and donors rally to his campaign. Analysts note that the combined rise in polling, visibility, and financial backing suggests voters are taking a fresh look at Becerra after initially overlooking his candidacy.
With less than two months before voters head to the polls on June 2, the race for second place—and a spot in a potential runoff—remains wide open. With one in five voters still undecided, according to the EVITARUS poll, the contest is far from settled—and the final outcome remains very much in play.