Becerra prepares to take helm as governor with few political debts. But there's questions about his agenda

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Set us as preferred California is about to enter the “Becerra era,” though the governor-elect who coined that phrase has dropped few hints about what will define it.After a decisive Tuesday night victory in the race to succeed termed-out Gov.

Gavin Newsom, Xavier Becerra will take the helm with a slate of potential economic opportunities: luring back Hollywood production, drawing international visitors to the 2028 Olympic Games, implementing voter-approved housing bonds and responsibly growing the artificial intelligence industry.But a long list of challenges awaits: grappling with worst-in-the-nation unemployment, solving the housing crisis, and preparing for and responding to seemingly endless fires, floods and other natural disasters.The optimistic 68-year-old told supporters gathered for his campaign party in West Sacramento that his mission is to “deliver a California we can afford and defend a California we can’t afford to lose.” “Here’s the good news,” Becerra, a Democrat, told the packed and cheering crowd.“Californians don’t expect a miracle from government; they just want government that works.

A government that can build things.A government that keeps our streets clean and schools safe.

Basic services delivered on time and on budget.”Easier said than done.“With billion-dollar deficits on the horizon ...he’s going to be limited in his ability to break new ground,” said Steven Maviglio, a Democratic strategist who worked for former Gov.

Gray Davis.“He’d be playing catchup on a lot of things.” California Democrats maintain a firm grip on California.

But they face mounting pressure to balance the state budget, usher in more government efficiency, build homes and solve affordability, figure out wildfire liability and regulate AI.Becerra’s victory arrived during a monumental ...