# Xavier Becerra becomes California's first Latino governor

> Xavier Becerra wins California governor race, making history as first Latino elected governor.
- Title: Xavier Becerra becomes California's first Latino governor
- Summary: Xavier Becerra wins California governor race, making history as first Latino elected governor. Xavier Becerra becomes California's first Latino governor…
- Keywords: xavier becerra, california governor, latino governor, gavin newsom, steve hilton, california election, 2026 election, Sfchronicle
- Source: Sfchronicle — https://sfchronicle.com/election/article/california-governor-results-22494957.php
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: xavier becerra, california governor, latino governor, gavin newsom, steve hilton, california election, 2026 election, news, local
## Xavier Becerra wins California governor race
Xavier Becerra secures victory as California's next governor, becoming the first Latino elected to the position.
## Becerra's victory marks historic milestone
Becerra's win makes him California's first Latino governor, ending a long history of non-Latino leadership.
## Early election results show strong lead
Becerra secured about 65% of the vote in early returns Tuesday night, with his opponent Steve Hilton trailing.
## Becerra's campaign strategy
Becerra stayed under the radar during the primary, avoiding interviews and public events until Election Day.
## Hilton's underdog campaign
Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, ran an energetic but controversial campaign with AI-generated ads and tax promises.
## Becerra's rise from primary struggles
Becerra's fortunes shifted after Eric Swalwell dropped out of the race following allegations of sexual assault.
## Becerra's historic win
Becerra becomes California's first Latino governor, succeeding Gov. Gavin Newsom who cannot run again due to term limits.
## Key takeaway

Xavier Becerra becomes California's first Latino governor after winning the 2026 election.