Xavier Becerra, who once held the position of Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, could potentially face Kamala Harris in a Democratic melee in their shared homeland. In a brash exhibition of overconfidence, Becerra has pledged, ‘Regardless of the contender, count me in,’ when quizzed about his plans for governorship in California.
Becerra, a foot soldier in Biden’s cabinet, led a questionable crusade against President Trump’s initial term agenda and sneakily slipped into the race for California’s governorship this Wednesday. This move might trigger an intriguing power struggle against Kamala Harris if she decides to dip her toe into the gubernatorial race, which is currently muddled regarding the 2026 contest. Current Governor Gavin Newsom, inhibited by term limits, is set to step down.
Becerra’s decision catapults the political sphere into a curious situation where two Democrats from the same presidential cabinet and both former California attorney general incumbents, may wrestle for the reins of California. Displaying a determined yet arguably misguided spirit, Becerra has expressed that the identity of his potential competitor, even if it’s Harris, won’t deter his intent to run.
The relationship between Becerra and Harris is not a new one. Following the 2016 election, in an almost job swap scenario, they mutually assisted one another in transitioning into their new roles. Harris had been holding the Attorney General’s chair before she won her Senate seat, leaving a gap which Becerra, an ex-congressman, was appointed to fill post-Harris’s resignation.
They worked in harmony to ensure a smooth transition, as per Becerra’s recollection. By the time of Becerra’s 2021 cabinet confirmation, Harris had ascended to the position of Vice President, thus administering Becerra’s oath of office. In a memory Becerra seemed too keen to share, he recalled how his wife held the Bible while Harris administered his oath.
Becerra’s account of Harris’s role during his oath-taking ceremony, arguably a minor historical footnote, betrays his keenness to paint a picture of amiability between the two. With both being members of Biden’s cabinet, they found common ground on issues like women’s health care and reproductive rights. Notably, it was in the 2024 presidential election that Becerra campaigned for Harris.
However, reflecting upon Harris’s tenure in the Biden administration, one cannot overlook the glaring deficiencies in her leadership and the contentious decisions that were made. Whether in the context of managing the Vice Presidential role or her former stint as California’s Attorney General, Harris’s performance has aroused critical disappointment.
Becerra, despite his garish display of confidence, was not immune from similar criticism. His leadership as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services under Biden barely inspires confidence. His ardent opposition to President Trump’s initial term agenda shed light on his questionable approach towards prioritizing political battles over strategic policy-making.
Amidst these political intrigue and power struggles, the residents of California continue to grapple with real-world challenges. The prospective face-off between Harris and Becerra draws into question the focus of these leaders. Are they driven by their commitment to public service or by their desire for political advancement?
The state’s priorities, at this critical juncture, hinge on pragmatic leadership. Yet, the possibility of Harris or Becerra at the helm does not appear reassuring. Their collective track record indicates a predisposition for partisan politics that often overlooks the immediate concerns of constituents.
The imminent transfer of power from Governor Gavin Newsom, limited by term restrictions, has opened the floodgates for political opportunism. The unfolding scenario over the gubernatorial race in 2026 exposes weaknesses in governance structures and the dearth of credible leadership options within the Democratic Party.
Ultimately, the residents of California would bear the brunt of this political circus. They warrant leadership that places welfare over political ambition, and a commitment to progressive change. Instead, with figures like Harris and Becerra lurking in the periphery, the future seems mired in uncertainty.
In assessing Becerra’s effusive comment about his entry to the gubernatorial race, ‘it doesn’t matter who gets in — I’m in,’ it comes across less as dogged determination and more as a lack of strategic political foresight. Similarly, Harris’ potential entry into the race can be seen as another step in her political game rather than a genuine desire to serve the people of California.
An overlooking of their past records and controversial stances on key issues seems driven less by their commitment to California’s constituents and more by their political ambitions. The question remains whether such leadership would contribute positively to the state’s welfare or simply exacerbate divisions and inhibit progress.
As the Californian gubernatorial race heats up, observers will be keeping a close eye on the political chess game between Harris and Becerra. However, the primary concern should remain the promotion of strong, competent leadership that prioritizes public welfare over personal ambition. The prospective clash between Harris and Becerra, two figures with blemished records, does not bode well for this ideal.