Xavier Becerra advances in California’s hotly contested governor’s race Xavier Becerra has secured a spot in California’s gubernatorial general election after a come-from-behind primary victory. Election officials are still counting ballots to determine if he will face fellow Democrat Tom Steyer or Republican Steve Hilton. Becerra, who was previously trailing in polls, celebrated his unexpected success, while Donald Trump prematurely declared Hilton the winner and alleged election rigging.

• Xavier Becerra advanced to the general election in California’s gubernatorial race.
• The opponent in the general election will be either Democrat Tom Steyer or Republican Steve Hilton, pending ballot counts.
• Becerra celebrated a surprising victory after being far behind in the polls.
• Donald Trump preemptively declared Steve Hilton the winner and accused California of election rigging.
• The US justice department sent an observer to monitor ballot processing in Los Angeles.
• California’s primary system advances the top two vote-getters regardless of party.
• A Republican faces an uphill battle in California, especially with Trump’s endorsement.
• A contest between Becerra and Steyer would ensure a Democrat governor.
• Tom Steyer spent over $200m on his campaign.
• Eric Swalwell ended his gubernatorial campaign due to allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.