Becerra's Pre-Interview Exchange Draws Criticism
A clip posted May 12, 2026 shows Xavier Becerra asking for a 'profile' not a 'gotcha' interview, prompting criticism from rivals and commentators and reviving questions about his HHS record.
FOX NewsAwkward moment kicks off interview with ex-Biden adviser, drawing derision for Dem California gov candidate
FOX NewsDem CA gubernatorial hopeful lectures reporter, says interview should be a profile, not a 'gotcha piece'
Hot AirXavier Becerra Takes a One-Two Punch
New York MagazineBecerra Tries to Ensure Interviewer Won’t Be Mean to Him
Overview
A clip posted May 12, 2026 shows Xavier Becerra telling a local television reporter the interview should be a 'profile' and not a 'gotcha' piece before questions began.
The exchange occurred as Becerra leads Democratic primary polling and is campaigning in California's governor's race ahead of the June 2 primary.
Rivals and commentators criticized the clip, with a spokesman for Tom Steyer, Matt Mahan's campaign, and commentators including Tommy Vietor and David Axelrod mocking Becerra's remarks.
The moment renewed scrutiny of Becerra's HHS tenure after reporting that HHS could not reach 85,000 migrant children, and polls cited him at around 20% among Democrats.
Rival campaigns have used the moments in ads and on social media, and the episode adds scrutiny as candidates continue to campaign before the June 2 primary.
Analysis
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