Wow! Newsom must be embarrassed about this one.
California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra is making waves across the state after publicly criticizing California’s troubled High-Speed Rail project — a major initiative long associated with Governor Gavin Newsom and state Democratic leadership.
Speaking at a campaign event in Fresno, Becerra vowed to overhaul the controversial rail system and finally complete the project “on budget and on time,” drawing attention from voters frustrated by years of delays, rising costs, and unfinished construction.
The comments marked one of the sharpest public breaks yet between Becerra and California’s current leadership, especially as concerns over infrastructure spending and affordability continue to dominate political discussions statewide.
Becerra, who previously served in the Biden administration, has recently gained momentum in the California governor’s race by focusing heavily on issues impacting working families in the Central Valley. His campaign has emphasized agriculture, water policy, infrastructure improvements, and economic growth in regions many residents believe have been overlooked by Sacramento politicians.
During Saturday’s appearance, Becerra stressed his deep personal ties to the San Joaquin Valley and told supporters he understands the daily struggles facing farmers, small businesses, and middle-class Californians.
“It felt like a family reunion,” Becerra said while speaking to supporters. “The Valley is home to me, and I’m not going to forget the people who live and work here.”
He continued by describing the Central Valley as one of the most important economic engines in the state, especially because of its role in agriculture and food production.
“The heartbeat of California is right here in the Valley,” he said.
However, the biggest applause of the event reportedly came when Becerra addressed California’s embattled High-Speed Rail system — a project that has faced criticism for years over ballooning expenses and repeated construction setbacks.
“We’re going to move away from the current setup and finally get this project completed,” Becerra said. “But it has to be done responsibly, within budget, and without endless delays.”
For many political observers, the remarks signaled growing frustration even within Democratic circles over the state’s handling of large taxpayer-funded projects.
California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas also attended the Fresno event and publicly backed Becerra’s campaign, praising both his experience and leadership style.
“When it comes to his values, who he is, and his experience, it’s someone that I trust,” Rivas said.
Water policy also emerged as a major issue during the discussion. California farmers and residents continue to face ongoing concerns over drought conditions, water restrictions, and environmental regulations that have impacted agricultural communities throughout the state.
Becerra acknowledged the need for compromise between environmental groups, developers, and the agriculture industry.
“There is a sweet spot,” he explained. “Everyone has to recognize that water is a precious resource.”
The comments come as new polling suggests Becerra is becoming a serious contender in the race ahead of California’s June 2 primary election.
A recent Emerson College and Inside California Politics survey showed Becerra leading the crowded field with 19% support, narrowly ahead of Republican candidate Steve Hilton and Democrat Tom Steyer.
As California voters continue to grapple with rising living costs, infrastructure concerns, and growing frustration over state leadership, Becerra’s willingness to challenge one of California’s most criticized projects could become a defining issue in the governor’s race.
