California’s fifth consecutive Catholic governor exemplifies the faith’s deep roots

Xavier Becerra’s election as California governor extends the state’s run of Catholic governors to five consecutive leaders, reflecting Catholicism’s longstanding place in California life. His faith-informed support for abortion rights also illustrates how Catholic identity can coexist with progressive politics, and why Catholic voters do not consistently align with one party.

California has more Catholics than any other state: a 2024 Pew poll found that 25% of adults there identify as Catholic. The AP Voter Poll, based on roughly 100,000 midterm voters, found that Catholics made up about two in 10 voters in the governor’s race; around six in 10 backed Becerra and four in 10 chose his Republican opponent. Catholic teachings span issues including social welfare, the death penalty, abortion and in vitro fertilisation, contributing to varied political views.