Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra outlined his key priorities for California during an interview with ethnic and community media outlets, emphasizing his extensive government experience and commitment to working families.

The son of Mexican immigrants, Becerra said his campaign is focused on restoring opportunity for Californians struggling with the rising cost of living. He highlighted his record as a longtime congressman, California attorney general, and member of President Joe Biden’s cabinet, where he helped expand healthcare access and lower prescription drug costs.

One of his top priorities is addressing California’s housing crisis. Becerra said he would declare a housing emergency upon taking office and work to accelerate the construction of approximately 40,000 housing units that are already approved but awaiting financing. He also proposed temporarily freezing utility rate increases and homeowners’ insurance premiums.

On immigration, Becerra pledged to use every legal tool available to protect immigrant communities from federal actions he believes violate constitutional rights and California law.

He also reaffirmed his support for expanding healthcare access, including maintaining Medi-Cal coverage for undocumented workers, arguing that reducing coverage would ultimately increase costs for taxpayers and healthcare providers.

To address homelessness, Becerra called for greater accountability in state-funded programs, expanding successful initiatives while eliminating those that fail to deliver measurable results.

The Democratic candidate said his experience managing large government agencies has prepared him to lead California from day one. “I want families to believe again that hard work can help them buy a home, send their children to college, and build a better future right here in California,” Becerra said.