Democrat Xavier Becerra holds a significant lead over Republican Steve Hilton in the race for California governor, according to recent polling data. Since the state’s June primary, Becerra has consistently led Hilton by more than 15 percentage points in every survey.

Becerra, who would become California’s first elected Latino governor if successful, secured first place in the open primary, finishing three percentage points ahead of Hilton. Hilton, a former Fox News host endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has sought to rally support to break the Democrats’ long-standing hold on the state’s top office.

With the primary field now narrowed to the two major party candidates, voters have largely consolidated along party lines. A recent University of California Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll, sponsored by a major California news outlet, showed both candidates enjoying around 90 percent or higher backing within their respective parties. However, Becerra demonstrated a notable edge among unaffiliated voters, capturing 56 percent compared to Hilton’s 30 percent. This advantage translated into a 25-point lead in the overall poll, marking Becerra’s largest margin of the election cycle and a seven-point increase since an early August survey from the same source.

The current polling trends are consistent with recent gubernatorial elections in California, where Democratic candidates have won by substantial margins. Governor Gavin Newsom secured reelection last year by 18 points and achieved a 23-point victory in 2018, underscoring the state's Democratic leaning despite national shifts in voter sentiment reflected in generic congressional ballot polls.

Despite roughly 10 percent of voters remaining undecided, Becerra’s lead appears robust across various demographic groups, including age, race, and education. He also maintains a positive favorability rating among likely voters statewide, with 48 percent viewing him favorably and 40 percent unfavorably.

Hilton, who aims to become the first Republican governor of California since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s departure in 2011, faces challenges in improving his standing. His favorability among likely voters stands at 35 percent, with 51 percent expressing an unfavorable opinion.

The race remains competitive among undecided voters, but current data sets Becerra in a strong position as the general election approaches.