Millions Back Becerra: Who's Funding California's Next Leader?
California's gubernatorial front-runner, Xavier Becerra, is receiving substantial financial backing from various special interest groups and companies as the November election approaches. These influential players, including Big Tech, healthcare giants, powerful labor unions, and even fossil fuel companies, have collectively contributed millions to his campaign. This significant influx of cash raises questions about potential influence on the policies California’s next governor will shape. Critics suggest these contributions represent efforts to secure favorable decisions on crucial state issues, from regulations on social media to healthcare funding and environmental policies.
As Xavier Becerra takes a commanding lead in California's gubernatorial race, his campaign has seen an extraordinary influx of cash from powerful special interest groups. Over $48.8 million has flowed into efforts supporting Becerra, largely from independent committees. While campaigns often find back doors to work with these committees, this significant funding comes from diverse sectors, including Big Tech, the healthcare industry, and major labor unions, all with considerable stakes in California's future policies.
Among the top donors, Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, contributed nearly $1.2 million, at a time when lawmakers are considering stricter controls on social media. Labor unions, such as the Laborers’ International Union, and groups like the California Assn. of Realtors have each poured millions into Becerra's bid, alongside Native American tribes and the California Medical Assn. A committee opposing Hilton, which paradoxically helped him in the primary, even raised money from a wealthy businessman Bill Bloomfield.
Becerra’s opponent, Steve Hilton, has publicly called these donations "legalized bribery," suggesting they aim to sway the presumed next governor. Becerra's campaign, however, insists that while they welcome support, his policy decisions will remain focused on making California more affordable and improving conditions for working people, irrespective of contributions.
Critically, fossil fuel companies like Chevron have also provided significant financial backing, with over $1.1 million supporting Becerra. This particular support has drawn fire from climate activists, highlighting the urgent need for environmental action and a swift shift away from fossil fuels. The next governor's choices will profoundly impact California's commitment to clean energy and its fight against global warming, emphasizing why transparency in campaign finance is crucial for ensuring policies truly serve the public and the planet.