Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has advanced to the November general election in California’s gubernatorial race, according to multiple news projections. The identity of his opponent remains uncertain as election officials continue counting mail-in ballots. Billionaire Democrat Tom Steyer and Republican Steve Hilton are in close contention for the second spot in the nonpartisan 'top-two' primary system. The race has been historic in cost, exceeding $300 million in ad spending, and is unfolding slowly due to California’s policy of counting ballots postmarked by Election Day and received within seven days. Democrats largely waited until the final days to vote, contributing to late-counted ballots favoring Becerra. While Becerra is now projected to advance, some outlets continue to emphasize uncertainty, and others highlight political controversy, including baseless claims of election interference from former President Donald Trump. The final outcome will determine whether the November race features a Democrat versus Republican or an intra-party Democratic contest.

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