Becerra Surges to 10% in CA Gov Poll After Swalwell Exit

A fresh Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics survey of 1,000 likely voters, published Thursday, catapults former U.S. Health Secretary and state Attorney General Xavier Becerra into contention for California's 2026 gubernatorial race. Becerra now ties Rep. Katie Porter at 10% overall, a seven-point leap from his prior 3% showing, directly following Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell's exit last week over sexual misconduct allegations. Among Democrats, Becerra rocketed 15 points to 19%, nipping at billionaire Tom Steyer's 20% lead.[1][2] Republicans dominate the poll's top: media pundit Steve Hilton leads at 17%, followed by Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Steyer tied at 14%. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan climbed to 5%, while six candidates now clear the 5% threshold needed for the April 22 debate at San Francisco's Commonwealth Club. Becerra and Mahan secured their spots with this poll, heightening stakes ahead of the June primary.[1][2] The survey underscores a volatile field, with 23% of voters undecided and Swalwell's dropout redistributing Democratic support. A pre-exit Public Policy Center of California poll had Becerra below 10%, alongside figures like former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, ex-State Controller Betty Yee and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Becerra's campaign highlighted the surge and social media buzz as proof of viability in the nation's most populous state.[2]