Xavier Becerra clashes with reporters over taxes and affordability promises

Key Points:

• California Gov.-elect Xavier Becerra emphasized that "everything should be on the table" to address the state's affordability crisis, including housing, healthcare, energy, and tax policy, though he offered few specific plans in his first public remarks since election night.
• Becerra, who defeated Republican Steve Hilton, highlighted the importance of cost of living as the top priority and expressed openness to considering higher tax rates on wealthy residents to ensure they pay their "fair share."
• He declined to make firm commitments on lowering health care costs without knowing the budget and legislative support but pointed to his record of expanding access and reducing costs as governor-elect.
• Becerra promised a collaborative approach with legislative leaders and indicated that announcements about his transition team would be forthcoming, while cautioning against political grandstanding.
• Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas stressed that the election results do not imply unconditional support for Democratic leadership, underscoring a public demand for change.