Democrat Xavier Becerra won the California governor’s race. He defeated Republican Steve Hilton.
The Associated Press called the race at 8 p.m. Pacific Time. Becerra led about 64 percent to 36 percent.
Becerra becomes the first Latino elected governor of California. He is the state’s first Latino governor since 1875.
A first in more than 150 years
Becerra is 68 and a former state attorney general. He was President Joe Biden’s health secretary.
Hilton was a former Fox News host. He had never held elected office.
Becerra succeeds Governor Gavin Newsom, who could not run again because of term limits. The office stays in Democratic hands.
The last Latino to lead California was Romualdo Pacheco in 1875. Pacheco rose to the role by succession and was never elected to the post.
What is confirmed: Becerra won the race. Hilton lost. California keeps a Democratic governor.
