Xavier Becerra secures California Chamber endorsement as primary race heats up

The California Chamber of Commerce has formally endorsed Democrat Xavier Becerra for governor, marking the first time the powerful business group has backed a Democratic candidate in a California gubernatorial contest. Chamber leaders said Becerra offers “stability and certainty” for the state’s economy.

Becerra now faces Republican Steve Hilton in the June 12 primary, a contest in which corporate donors have poured more than $50 million into Becerra’s campaign. Major contributors include Chevron, McDonald’s, Meta, Airbnb and Centene. Becerra has signaled support for delaying California’s 2045 climate‑emissions targets, while Hilton has vowed to repeal existing climate policies. Both candidates argue that climate action raises costs for households. Becerra also enjoys endorsements from Governor Gavin Newsom, former Vice President Kamala Harris and several labor and trade groups.