Democrat Xavier Becerra is projected to win California’s gubernatorial election after local media outlets and U.S. news networks reported his victory over Republican candidate Steve Hilton.

According to election coverage by ABC7 and the Los Angeles Times, Becerra is expected to become the state’s next governor following a race to determine who will succeed Gavin Newsom, who is completing his second term in office.

The projected victory would mark a historic milestone, as Becerra would become California’s first Latino governor since 1875.

He is the son of Mexican immigrants and was born in Sacramento.

Becerra has more than three decades of experience in public service. His previous roles include serving as California attorney general, a member of Congress, and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under former President Joe Biden.

During his campaign, Becerra focused on issues such as the cost of living, housing affordability, and access to health care. He also positioned himself against several policies promoted by President Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, Republican Steve Hilton centered his campaign on lowering living costs for residents, cutting taxes, and changing state policies related to regulation and public spending.

Although several news outlets have projected Becerra as the winner, vote counting is still underway. The results must undergo the official review and certification process before they become final.