As California welcomes its new governor-elect, Xavier Becerra, many are curious about the direction he will take the state amidst significant challenges. Unlike his predecessor, Becerra has maintained a reserved approach during his campaign, leaving much to speculation regarding his policy priorities.

With federal healthcare cuts, escalating wildfire expenses, and a persistent cost-of-living crisis on the horizon, Becerra’s governance is anticipated to be crucial in navigating these issues. Here’s a closer look at the potential policies and decisions he might undertake.

He’s open to new taxes

While Becerra opposed the billionaire tax ballot proposition, citing instability in taxing assets for state revenues, he does believe in equitable taxation for the wealthy. However, he has yet to endorse any specific new income taxes.

There’s a possibility of Becerra supporting taxes on corporations whose employees rely on public benefits due to low wages. The state Department of Finance is currently examining this approach, with recommendations expected next year.

Additionally, Becerra is contemplating a tax based on miles driven to fund road repairs, as gas tax revenues are anticipated to drop by $31 billion over the next decade due to the rise of electric vehicles. “I take no pleasure in telling people taxes are for a purpose,” he remarked. “I believe that users should pay for (roads).”

Big decisions on climate and energy

Becerra aims to balance affordable energy and California’s clean energy transition. One initiative he’s promoting is the “power hour,” offering low-income households two hours of free electricity during low-demand solar energy periods. This program targets those already eligible for utility assistance.

He also plans to stabilize energy prices through measures such as increased in-state oil drilling, while evaluating the feasibility of California’s 2030 deadline to prohibit new gas car sales, contingent on electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Becerra will also inherit the ongoing conflict between utilities and insurance companies over liability for wildfire damages. If unresolved by outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom, Becerra will need to address this contentious issue.

Healthcare for undocumented immigrants

Becerra’s track record shows a commitment to immigrant rights, including opposing cuts to social programs for legal immigrants in 1993. As governor, he intends to reinstate Medi-Cal access for undocumented immigrants, reversing recent restrictions that removed thousands from the program.

Given Newsom’s rollback of immigrant health coverage due to budget issues, Becerra’s approach will focus on maintaining access to healthcare for all residents, as he told KQED: “My values and my fiscal beliefs tell me that anyone who works hard in California should have access to the healthcare they need for themselves and for their family and they should be able to afford it, and that includes undocumented.”

Continuing Newsom’s death penalty moratorium

California has not executed any inmates since 2006, and with Newsom’s moratorium in place, Becerra is unlikely to resume executions. Despite previously defending death sentences as attorney general, Becerra supports the moratorium due to concerns over racial bias and wrongful convictions.

He calls himself a ‘pragmatic progressive’

Becerra identifies as a ‘pragmatic progressive,’ favoring incremental change over sweeping reforms. His congressional career was marked by collaboration with both progressives and Democratic leaders, reflecting his balanced approach.

While he once supported single-payer healthcare, Becerra now views it as improbable under current federal conditions. Instead, he emphasizes practical solutions, such as expanding coverage, a focus he maintained as President Biden’s health secretary.

Reflecting on the 2016 election, Becerra mentioned, “When I was helping Hillary Clinton in 2016, my daughters wanted to vote for Bernie Sanders,” illustrating his pragmatic approach: “I get it, I understand. I want Medicare for All … But we got to get (things) done, and I want someone who’s actually been in the thick of things.”