California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra is positioning himself as a results-driven Democrat willing to work across party lines, laying out an agenda focused on affordability, health care, housing, energy and technology at a Sacramento summit last week.
In a conversation with POLITICO California Bureau Chief Melanie Mason, the former California attorney general and U.S. health secretary pushed back on Republican criticism that Democrats bear responsibility for California’s persistent housing, homelessness and affordability problems.
“We’re a state. We’re a family. We all work together,” Becerra said, arguing that California’s challenges require cooperation rather than partisan blame. He added that, as governor, he would have to work with lawmakers “whether they’ve got a D or an R behind their name.”
The approach reflects Becerra’s broader campaign argument that voters are looking for results rather than ideological promises. He pointed to his experience handling crises and negotiating lower prescription drug prices as evidence that he can deliver, while rejecting what he called “pie in the sky, inflated promises.”
That philosophy is reflected in his housing proposal. Becerra says he wants to accelerate construction by reducing regulatory delays and creating greater certainty for developers, but declined to promise three million new homes, calling that an “inflated promise.” He also pledged to expand programs that help Californians purchase their first homes.
Health care is another major component of his platform. With federal cuts threatening coverage for Californians, Becerra proposed making the state a “backstop” so residents do not lose insurance. His plan would seek savings from administrative waste and require insurers and providers to help reduce costs.
On energy, Becerra unveiled his “Power Hour” concept: two hours of free electricity, initially aimed at lower-income households, during periods of excess solar generation. The proposal would encourage Californians to shift energy use to the afternoon, when solar production is high.
Becerra also supports requiring larger employers to contribute more when workers rely on publicly funded health programs, arguing that taxpayers should not subsidize companies that fail to provide affordable coverage.
On climate policy, he said California’s 2035 goal for phasing out new gas-powered cars is achievable if the state invests in charging infrastructure. He also wants stronger guardrails for artificial intelligence, particularly to protect children and workers, while keeping California at the center of the technology industry.
The candidate also addressed the proposed Paramount-Skydance merger, saying the state should consider whether the deal would keep Hollywood’s entertainment industry vibrant and protect working families.
On taxes, Becerra opposes the specific billionaires tax proposal on the ballot but maintains that wealthy Californians should pay their fair share. He also rejected the idea that Democrats face an “existential crisis,” arguing that different ideological factions can strengthen the party if they focus on delivering results.
The post At Sacramento Summit, Becerra Discusses Policy; Uses “Family” Metaphor to Frame Case for National Political Unity appeared first on BlackPressUSA.
