Becerra Leads California Governor Race Poll at 23%

Xavier Becerra has taken a clear lead in the California governor race, garnering 23% support according to a recent Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) survey. Republican candidate Steve Hilton follows closely with 20%, while Democrat Tom Steyer trails in third place with 15%.

The poll indicates that Becerra and Hilton are beginning to pull away from the rest of the candidates as the primary contest approaches in mid-May. Mark Baldassar, the director of the PPIC statewide survey, noted the strong position of Becerra, suggesting he is on course to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, given California's strong Democratic voter base.

However, Steyer's campaign has rejected the poll's findings, arguing that it does not reflect their recent campaign efforts, which have included intensified attacks on Becerra. The poll also revealed that a proposed wealth tax targeting California billionaires has 54% support among residents, with 45% opposed.