Xavier Becerra, a veteran politician with decades of public service, is facing sharp criticism from rivals regarding his recent tenure as Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Biden, particularly concerning his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and unaccompanied migrant children.
Becerra, who has held positions in the California State Assembly, the U.S. Congress, and as California's Attorney General before his federal role, has seen his background become a focal point in the state's gubernatorial primary. Opponents, led by Tom Steyer, are questioning his effectiveness in Washington, D.C., and accusing him of mismanagement and incompetence during his nearly four years leading the Department of Health and Human Services.
Criticism has included accusations that Becerra was "AWOL" during the pandemic and that tens of thousands of unaccompanied migrant children were "lost" on his watch. Campaign materials from Steyer's campaign have cited negative remarks from former Biden administration officials, including a quote from Susan Rice describing Becerra as an "idiot," and a statement from Xochitl Hinojosa, a Justice Department spokesperson, suggesting Becerra "was not effective in government."
However, allies and former colleagues defend Becerra's record. Ron Klain, former White House Chief of Staff, stated that Becerra "did an excellent job as HHS secretary," highlighting his work on prescription drug prices and expanding healthcare coverage. Klain also noted that Becerra's role in the COVID-19 response was limited by his late confirmation and that his responsibilities regarding migrant children were confined to the Office of Refugee Resettlement, a role he described Becerra as passionately advocating for.
Neera Tanden, who succeeded Rice as head of Biden’s Domestic Policy Council, has also defended Becerra, calling the attacks "ridiculous" and asserting that Becerra "had big things to do and he got them done." Despite these defenses, questions persist regarding Becerra's handling of unaccompanied minors, a situation inherited from the previous administration, and the context of negative comments from figures like Susan Rice, who reportedly had a contentious relationship with Becerra.
As the primary election approaches, Becerra's extensive career, particularly his time in the Biden administration, is under intense scrutiny. While campaign tactics often involve attacks and criticisms, voters are being urged to consider a comprehensive evaluation of Becerra's qualifications and performance as they decide on California's next governor.
