Democrat Xavier Becerra enters the final stretch of the California gubernatorial primary with an increasingly solid lead over his main rivals. A new poll from Emerson College Polling and Inside California Politics shows that the former Secretary of Health not only maintains first place, but has managed to open a significant gap over businessman Tom Steyer and Republican Steve Hilton.

According to the poll, Becerra reaches 28% of the preferences among likely voters, while Steyer obtains 22% and Hilton 21%. Republican Chad Bianco appears with 12%, while Democrats Katie Porter and Matt Mahan each register 5%.

Becerra strengthens his position among Democrats and Hispanics

Becerra's growth has been one of the most important moves of the campaign in recent weeks. According to the survey, the Democrat increased nine percentage points since the study carried out in mid-May, a figure higher than that recorded by any of his competitors.

Emerson College Polling executive director Spencer Kimball noted that Becerra maintains his front-runner status and has managed to build a broad coalition within the Democratic electorate.

“Xavier Becerra maintains favorite status,” Kimball said.

The poll also shows that he leads among Democratic voters, Hispanics and women, key segments to define the election in California.

Steyer and Hilton fight for the second ticket

While Becerra seems to consolidate his advance, the closer dispute is developing between Tom Steyer and Steve Hilton. Both appear practically tied and with the possibility of advancing to the general election in November.

Kimball noted that Steyer maintains strength among voters under 30, while Hilton largely dominates the Republican vote. However, Becerra's growth could be absorbing support that previously favored Steyer.

Another relevant fact is that 74% of Becerra's supporters assure that they will not change their vote before election day, which reinforces the stability of their support.