Xavier Becerra elected California governor, first Latino in 150 years

Xavier Becerra was elected as California's next governor, becoming the first Latino to hold the position in over 150 years, according to Hollywood Reporter and Deadline.

Becerra, a Democrat and former secretary of Health and Human Services, defeated Republican Steve Hilton, who had campaigned on issues like government waste, education reform, and a film tax credit to support Hollywood, Variety and Hollywood Reporter noted.

Becerra's campaign emphasized lowering energy costs and advancing universal healthcare, while also opposing former President Trump, whom he had sued multiple times as attorney general, Variety reported.

Although Becerra has made few firm commitments regarding film and TV tax incentives, he acknowledged the importance of the entertainment industry to Southern California's economy and tourism, according to Variety.

The outgoing governor, Gavin Newsom, recently proposed expanding the state's production tax credit, but the decision on this policy will fall to Becerra, as Newsom will leave office soon, Variety added.