Becerra’s rise baffles his former Biden colleagues

Key Points:

• Xavier Becerra has unexpectedly emerged as the frontrunner in California’s Democratic gubernatorial primary, surprising many former Biden administration officials who viewed his tenure as HHS secretary critically.
• Several former administration colleagues described Becerra as ineffective during the Covid-19 pandemic and migrant health crises, citing his lack of visible leadership and preparedness in high-pressure situations.
• White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain and some allies defended Becerra’s record, highlighting his achievements on healthcare policy and disputing claims of ineffectiveness.
• The debate over Becerra’s qualifications became public after a rival candidate criticized his performance, prompting mixed reactions from Biden administration veterans and sparking campaign attacks on his trustworthiness.
• Despite doubts about his capabilities, Becerra’s rise is partly attributed to a weak Democratic field and voter desire to avoid a Republican win, though he lacks endorsements from top Democratic leaders like Biden and Harris.