Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris finally weigh in on governor’s race — after months-long silence

California’s Democratic heavy hitters have finally weighed in on the gubernatorial race after the contest was officially called, setting up a November showdown between Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra.

Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris both congratulated the Democrat on his victory after he captured around 28% of the counted ballots and defeated fellow Democrat Tom Steyer for a spot in the top two.

“Xavier Becerra has the experience and grit California needs. He will stand up to Donald Trump, defend our families, and keep our state moving forward. It’s time to get to work and help him win this November,” Newsom wrote on X, alongside a lengthier statement calling on Californians to unite behind the Democrat.

“Now it’s time for Democrats to unite and win in November. I’m proud to support Xavier as our nominee for Governor and look forward to helping ensure a smooth transition. He’ll stand up to Donald Trump, defend our families, and keep California moving forward,” he added.

Newsom’s endorsement comes after months of silence as he refused to weigh in on a crowded primary that saw at least five Democrats vying for his job.

The outgoing governor is serving out the final months of his term in accordance with California’s gubernatorial term limits.

Also weighing in was Harris, who, after her thumping loss to President Donald Trump in 2024, has been spending more time in her home state of California after purchasing a multimillion-dollar home in Malibu.

“Congratulations to @XavierBecerra. I am excited to offer him all the support I can as he sets out to become our state’s next governor,” she said on X.

“I have been fortunate to see firsthand how Xavier never shies away from the biggest fights, whether it was taking on the drug companies as Secretary of Health and Human Services or going after sex traffickers and big polluters as California’s Attorney General.

“I know as Governor, he will do whatever it takes to stand up to Donald Trump, defend our rights, and protect our communities,” she added.

Both Harris and Newsom commended the other candidates and thanked them for “stepping forward.” If elected, Becerra would become California’s first Latino governor in roughly 150 years.

Steyer, who finished second among the Democrats, conceded and endorsed Becerra earlier in the week. Former rival Katie Porter also endorsed the former Health and Human Services secretary.

In California’s primary system, the top two vote-getters advance to the November general election regardless of party affiliation.

Political analysts say it should be relatively smooth sailing for Becerra due to Democratic voter registration advantages and California’s progressive political leanings.

They noted that figures like Newsom and Harris had largely avoided endorsements during the primary because they did not want to back a losing candidate given the competitive nature of the race.

Former President Joe Biden has yet to endorse the man he elevated to national office by appointing him to his Cabinet in 2021.

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