California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra is facing scrutiny over alleged ties to a fraud case involving the siphoning of $225,000 from his dormant campaign account by associates, including former Gov. Gavin Newsom’s chief of staff Dana Williamson and longtime Becerra aide Sean McCluskie. While Campbell and McCluskie pleaded guilty, Williamson pleaded not guilty. Becerra maintains he was misled and distanced himself from managing the account due to his role as Health and Human Services chief, emphasizing that the payments were legal though their subsequent use was not. Despite repeated questioning about fiscal responsibility, Becerra has focused on his record in public service, such as vaccine distribution during COVID-19 and protecting California as attorney general, but has struggled to directly address concerns about financial oversight.

The controversy has drawn criticism from other candidates, though Becerra has gained traction in the Democratic primary following the exit of Eric Swalwell. Allies of Newsom reportedly favor Becerra as a candidate. In interviews, Becerra has acknowledged mistakes in judgment but refrained from fully grading Newsom’s tenure, giving him an “A” on homelessness during a recent debate. The fraud allegations and Becerra’s responses continue to be a significant issue as he campaigns for governor.