Gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra is facing questions over a federal corruption scandal involving his former campaign manager and chief of staff. His record as U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary and State Attorney General also draws scrutiny.
In May 2026, Dana Williamson, Becerra's former campaign manager, pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy charges. An FBI investigation found Williamson, along with Sean McCluskie, Becerra's long-time chief of staff, illegally moved $225,000 from Becerra's dormant state campaign accounts. The funds were allegedly transferred to McCluskie’s wife's bank account to supplement his income. Federal prosecutors stated Becerra is not a named co-conspirator. However, Williamson’s defense attorney reported McCluskie claimed he "had talked to Becerra on multiple occasions and everything was good to go" regarding the transfers. Becerra offered conflicting statements on the payments, at one point admitting he was aware and had authorized them, but later stating he did not oversee them during debates. An anonymous complaint with the Fair Political Practices Commission also alleges Becerra violated state campaign finance laws.
As California's Attorney General, Becerra's office declined to investigate fossil fuel companies accused of misleading the public on climate change. He accepted campaign donations from corporate entities like Chevron. Amar Shergill, former chair of the California Democratic Party’s progressive caucus, characterized Becerra as a politician who aligns with corporate interests.
Becerra's office also challenged the release of police misconduct records in court after new state accountability legislation passed. He reportedly threatened journalists with criminal charges for possessing a list of convicted officers his office had accidentally provided. Journalist Jason Paladino, who was targeted, observed that Becerra consistently opposed measures to improve transparency into police records. Paladino linked this stance to support from police unions during Becerra's campaigns.
During his time as U.S. HHS Secretary, Becerra oversaw issues concerning unaccompanied migrant children. A New York Times investigation detailed pressure to quickly move children through federal care to ease border overcrowding. The agency reportedly failed to vet sponsors, missed signs of human trafficking, and lost contact with tens of thousands of children. Many minors subsequently worked in hazardous, illegal jobs. When confronted in 2026 debates, Becerra dismissed the reporting as "Trump lies" and "MAGA talking points."
The crowded primary ballot includes other candidates, such as San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, presented in the source as offering executive experience focused on housing and homelessness. Orange County residents, like other California voters, are considering candidates based on their records as the state addresses significant challenges.
