Commonwealth Club of California Podcast The Race for Governor 2026: Xavier Becerra
Feb 12, 2026
Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary and long-serving California attorney general, sketches his campaign centered on economic opportunity and health care. He recounts his Sacramento roots and public-service path. Conversation covers immigration enforcement, Medi-Cal priorities, AI and workforce transition, and using California’s clout with Washington.
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From A $6,500 House To Public Service
- Xavier Becerra describes his upbringing as the son of immigrant parents who bought a tiny house for $6,500 in 1950s Sacramento.
- He credits his parents' work and sacrifices for his path to Stanford, public service, and desire to expand opportunity for others.
Bring Options, Not Problems
- As an executive, Xavier says bring him options not problems and present the top two or three solutions with a recommended choice.
- He expects teams to prepare assessments so he can make timely, informed decisions.
Suing To Protect State Interests
- Becerra recounts suing the Trump administration over immigration enforcement and community policing funds and winning to protect California's priorities.
- He uses those cases to illustrate his readiness to challenge the federal government when it overreaches.