Xavier Becerra leans into his health care background while campaigning for governor in Orange County

April 1, 2026 - 09:36

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra is leveraging his extensive background in health policy as he campaigns to become California's next governor. During a recent swing through Orange County, the Democrat emphasized his goal of becoming the state's "health care governor," framing access to medical services as a fundamental issue for voters.

His campaign stops frequently feature visits to community health centers, where he highlights both his federal experience and his prior tenure as California's Attorney General. Becerra connects his record of defending the Affordable Care Act and lowering prescription drug costs to his vision for the state's future. He argues that this expertise is critical for navigating ongoing challenges, including protecting reproductive rights and expanding mental health services.

On the trail, Becerra contrasts his long history with health care policy against his opponents, suggesting a deep, practical understanding of the system's complexities is necessary for the role. His strategy involves a statewide barnstorming tour, aiming to build support by directly engaging with communities at the very clinics that serve as frontline health access points for millions of Californians.