Xavier Becerra, who served briefly under the Biden administration as Health Secretary, is the latest entrant into the packed Democratic race vying for the role of California’s next governor. This might not necessarily be good news for the state, considering his track record and policies. If Kamala Harris, the former Vice President also jumps into the fray, the dynamics could possibly take another interesting turn – interesting, but not encouraging.
The Stanford Law School alumnus has a long history of public service. He’s held the positions of California attorney general, a U.S. House member, and a state legislator – roles in which his decisions and policies left a lot to be desired. However, his selection by Joe Biden to head the Department of Health and Human Services in December 2020 is noteworthy.
In a state burdened by high housing and grocery costs, and ranking among the nation’s top in terms of gas and utility prices, Becerra’s concern for the ‘affordability crisis’ facing the working families seems rather ironic. After all, aren’t these the fruits of Democratic policies? His claim that ‘The California Dream is slipping away’ is rather apt, except he is part of the problem.
The race to replace the term-limited Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom, has turned into a melee with a myriad of likely and announced candidates. This disorder could become worse if Harris, who hasn’t yet dismissed the possibility of seeking governorship, decides to join.
Harris, despite her questionable performance as a state attorney general and U.S. senator, nor the failure of her presidential bid, might still consider stepping into the fray. It almost seems like the Democrats are comfortable with mediocrity and failures. They are expected to retain their seat in California, where they outnumber Republicans almost 2 to 1.
More than winning, Republicans haven’t had much luck in state elections in California, which have remained elusive for nearly two decades. However, Becerra’s entry and potentially Harris’s as well, might give them a glimmer of hope due to the duo’s established track record of inadequate policies and decision-making.
Becerra, in his announcement, tactfully avoided calling out his Democratic competitors directly. But we know those competitors, definitely include former U.S. House member Katie Porter, ex-Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, and others. Similar to his track record, this might be yet another example of Becerra dodging the tough question.
As for Republicans, earlier in February, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco signaled his intention to challenge Newsom by announcing his candidacy. Uncoincidentally, he firmly pointed out Democratic failures as the primary cause for the ongoing homeless crisis and the skyrocketing housing prices.
Becerra, often known for his low-profile, claimed to be ready to ‘take on bullies who get in our way.’ This statement was a thinly veiled jab at former President Donald Trump. Perhaps he should turn his attention to the more pressing challenges within his own state rather than past foreign adversaries.
Becerra’s aggressive litigation against the Republican administration during Trump’s term raised a few eyebrows, especially considering his unprecedented number of lawsuits on matters from health care to environmental policy. This kind of rapacious litigation may not sit well with conservatives and should make him a target if he takes a similar approach in his governorship.
Ironically, Becerra often mentions his humble origins to connect with voters on a personal level. His mother, who was born in Jalisco, Mexico, immigrated to the U.S. after marrying his father, a native of Sacramento, California, who grew up in Mexico. They only had $12 when they arrived, but managed to build a life they were proud of. If their son becomes governor, however, the state’s residents might not be able to say the same.
‘They built a life they were proud of,’ Becerra claims about his hardworking parents, reminiscing about their struggles. But he must remember that the same ‘promise of California’ his parents once saw is now slowly slipping away under the watch of his own party.
Becerra has boldly stated his intention to ‘fight to ensure it’s still within reach for everyone.’ However, in light of the administrative and legislative actions enacted by him and his party, it’s hard to see this as anything other than empty rhetoric.
There’s so much that’s concerning about Becerra’s candidacy and the potential candidacy of Harris. Californians, already dealing with high costs of living due to convoluted policies, do not need leaders with poor track records that have consistently failed to address the challenges facing their state.
Thus, with gubernatorial race heating up, the influence and policies of Becerra, and potentially Harris, could prove to be detrimental for California. It is the time for Californians to make their choice by looking beyond mere promises and paying attention to the track records of the candidates.
The post Becerra’s Entry: A Dark Cloud Over California’s Governor Race appeared first on Real News Now.
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