Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra tighten leads in new Calif. governor poll

Democratic frontrunner Xavier Becerra is still on top of the governor’s race despite relentless attacks by his opponents, according to a new poll released by the California Democratic Party Tuesday.

The former Health and Human Services chief polled with the support of 21% of likely voters, while Republican Steve Hilton led with 22%.

Becerra, who surged after being mired in single digits in the beginning of the year, had faced an onslaught of attacks in recent weeks during debates and through campaign ads in response to his rise. Democratic voters appeared to have consolidated behind him after former Congressman Eric Swalwell dropped out due to sexual misconduct allegations.

Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer attacked Becerra for his alleged closeness to the fossil fuel industry, while others, like Democratic San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, needled him for his track record as HHS secretary.

None of those attacks appeared to have made a dent weeks away from the June 2 primary.

“[Voters are] really looking closely at who’s out there, and I think I’ve been one of the beneficiaries of folks looking for a place that they can feel comfortable, where they can trust,” Becerra told reporters after a campaign event.

Steyer came in third at 15% despite spending millions to promote himself. Republican Sheriff Chad Bianco came in at 10%, while former Congresswoman Katie Porter (D) was at 7%.

The poll of 1,200 likely voters took place between May 14 and 16.

Ultimately, there has been no major movement in polls within recent weeks as the share of undecided voters are dropping and consolidating. Some political observers say the poll shows the results are finalizing.

“Very likely we are going to see a Becerra vs Hilton general [election],” said Mike Madrid, a GOP consultant.

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