Xavier Becerra Campaign Account Lost $225,000 While He Sought Governor Spot

The Missing Money

Federal prosecutors say roughly $225,000 walked out of Xavier Becerra’s campaign account between February 2022 and September 2024. The money was drained by his chief of staff and two others who have now pleaded guilty. Becerra claims he had no idea what his own people were doing while the funds disappeared. This scheme involved disguising the cash as pay for a fake job held by an employee’s spouse.

Prosecutors stated that no gubernatorial candidate is implicated in the actual charges. They described Becerra’s account as the victim of the theft rather than the tool used for it. The three conspirators moved the money through a consulting firm to hide the trail. Townhall reported that the funds were used to pay for a no-show job that never existed.

One of the conspirators also filed fraudulent tax returns for over $1 million in bogus deductions. These claims covered luxury handbags, private jet travel, and a home heating system. The investigation shows a pattern of financial deception surrounding the former health secretary. Per Townhall, the scheme was not a simple mistake but a coordinated effort to steal public funds.

A Silent Campaign

Xavier Becerra has kept a very low profile since winning the California primary in June. He has refused to accept eight different invitations to debate his Republican challenger, Steve Hilton. Steve Hilton told The California Post that he can’t have a scheduling conflict for everything. This silence has raised questions about whether the candidate is taking the race seriously.

Hilton accused Becerra of treating voters with disrespect by avoiding public questions. Hilton added that this guy is either asleep, gone on vacation or is absolutely terrified of answering any questions. He argued that either scenario shows contempt for the people of California. The Republican candidate believes the Democrat is arrogant enough to think he can win without effort.

Becerra’s campaign website lists only four press releases since late June according to reports. His public calendar remains sparse with few rallies and many private fundraisers. Hilton said that it’s exactly what you expect from a 36-year career politician who has failed at every job he’s had. The Republican challenger also cited a past insult from a former UN ambassador.

Hilton noted that now we know why when he was in the Biden cabinet, [former US ambassador to the United Nations] Susan Rice called him ‘bitch-ass Becerra.’ This comment highlights the tension between the two men heading into November. Becerra has yet to agree to any formal debates against his opponent. The race continues with the Democrat leading in voter registration numbers.

Local watchdogs are also concerned about his lack of visibility on major issues like wildfires. Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog, told Politico that he’s the incredible missing man. Court noted that it is unusual not to hear his stance on critical legislation.