SAN FRANCISCO – Xavier Becerra’s sharp rise in the polls — and record spanning more than three decades in office — made him a top target, continuing a theme from four other debates over the last month.

Becerra was the top choice for 19% of voters in an Emerson College poll released Wednesday, compared to 17% for Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Tom Steyer.

Thursday’s debate hosted by CBS California and The San Francisco Examiner came on the heels of a court hearing Thursday in which Becerra’s former aide, Dana Williamson, pleaded guilty to charges that included helping to steal $225,000 from a dormant campaign account. While prosecutors have said they view Becerra as a victim in the case, that hasn’t stopped rivals from questioning his judgment – or implying there’s more to the story. “It pains me to say it, because I like you personally, but you shouldn’t be in this race,” said Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host. “You should be preparing your criminal defense.” In response, Becerra said he “did nothing wrong”.

Story Date: May 29, 2026