Xavier Becerra dodges reporters at first public appearance at the California capitol post-primary election
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
At his first public appearance at the state Capitol since the primary election in June, Democratic candidate for California Governor Xavier Becerra on Wednesday dodged the group of reporters he’s expected to work with if elected.
Becerra was one of a series of speakers at a press conference supporting two proposed state laws related to the Voting Rights Act. One would expand language access to voters who are limited in their ability to read English (SB 1306) and another that broadly prohibits local governments and state agencies from any action that could result in “voter suppression” (SB 1164).
Becerra spoke briefly and slipped out of the press conference about 12 minutes into the event.
Journalists shuffled behind Becerra as he could be seen walking quickly to his car. He was peppered with questions about opposing a ballot measure requiring voter ID in future California elections and whether he’ll debate his Republican opponent, Steve Hilton.
Becerra would not stop to answer questions. His spokesman, Jonathan Underland, said Becerra planned to debate Hilton.
The last time Becerra answered questions from a group of journalists was in Los Angeles on June 9.
When asked why Becerra could not spare a few minutes to speak with the Capitol press corps, Underland said Becerra will be in Sacramento a lot in the coming weeks.
“He’s going to spend a lot of time with the journalists he’s going to have to work with if elected,” Underland said.
Underland said Wednesday’s schedule was tight because he needed to get to a health care-related event in the Fresno area, which was closed to the press.
Becerra is expected to attend Politico’s summit in Sacramento next week.
When asked if Becerra would gaggle with reporters there, Underland said, “Stay tuned, we’ll see.”
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