Insiders Vie for Positions in Potential Xavier Becerra Administration

Sacramento's political circles are buzzing with speculation and jockeying for positions within Xavier Becerra's potential administration, even before the California gubernatorial election has concluded. Insiders from Gov. Gavin Newsom's operation, labor unions, and longtime Becerra allies are reportedly assessing potential roles and influence should Becerra win.

For veterans of Newsom's political staff, the prospect of a Becerra governorship represents an opportunity to retain influence in state government as Newsom is widely expected to pursue a presidential campaign in 2028. Meanwhile, Becerra's own loyalists, some of whom have been affected by past scandals, are also seeking to secure their standing.

"We're all trying to find where the center of gravity is in Xavierland," one Democratic operative familiar with the situation told The California Post. "This is a hot mess."

Key figures reportedly involved in Becerra's transition planning include Nicole Elliott, a former Newsom cannabis regulator. Lindsey Cobia, a Newsom campaign veteran, and labor strategist Courtni Pugh are also mentioned as significant players in Becerra's political operations.

Liz Saldivar, a long-time aide to Becerra who served as his district director and later as external affairs director when he was California's attorney general, is considered a potentially influential voice on appointments. Her close relationship with Becerra's wife, Dr. Carolina Reyes, also positions her as a confidante, according to sources.

Other individuals reportedly in Becerra's inner circle include deputy campaign manager Cynthia Palafox and political director Robbie Abelon. Rosalina Cardenas, a former Univision executive managing the campaign's paid media, is also seen as a key advisor.

Becerra, whose campaign gained momentum after a previous candidate's exit, is known to value loyalty, a trait that may be heightened given past challenges. His former chief of staff, Sean McCluskie, and ex-campaign adviser Dana Williamson, who also served as Newsom's chief of staff, pleaded guilty in a corruption scheme involving funds from a Becerra campaign account. Prosecutors stated Becerra was unaware of the improper payments, which McCluskie allegedly disguised as legitimate expenses.

The implications of this past scandal have led to concerns among some observers that Becerra might rely heavily on Newsom's former staff for critical roles such as chief of staff, legislative affairs secretary, Cabinet secretary, and appointments secretary. This has fueled discussions of a potential "Newsom 3.0" scenario, despite polling indicating a majority of Californians desire a new direction.

Karen Skelton, a Democratic strategist with ties to both Becerra and past California governors, has been mentioned as a possible chief of staff, though her interest remains unclear. Nick Hardeman, former chief of staff to ex-Senate leader Toni Atkins, is also reportedly being considered.

Labor figures are also prominently discussed, with Joe Cruz, head of the California State Council of Laborers, and Courtni Pugh, active in campaign initiatives, being named as potential administration members.

Keeley Bosler, a former finance director under Newsom who is involved in establishing a nonprofit for the governor's travel, is another name being floated for a role. Becerra's daughter, Clarisa Reyes-Becerra, who has been paid by the campaign, is also rumored to be a candidate for an administration position.

Despite the internal maneuvering, Becerra campaign spokesperson Jonathan Underland stated the campaign's primary focus remains on securing victory in the upcoming election. However, political insiders suggest that the discussions about future roles and influence extend well beyond the election, with many seeking to establish themselves for the coming years.