Rep. Xavier Becerra was named California’s next attorney general Thursday by Gov. Jerry Brown. The congressman will replace fellow Democrat Kamala Harris, who was elected to the U.S. Senate last month.
Becerra has represented his Los Angeles County district in Congress since 1992. Prior to that he was a state Assemblyman and a deputy state attorney general. He is also chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.
“Xavier has been an outstanding public servant — in the state Legislature, the U.S. Congress and as a deputy attorney general,” Brown said. “I’m confident he will be a champion for all Californians and help our state aggressively combat climate change.”
“Governor Brown has presented me with an opportunity I cannot refuse — to serve as attorney general of my home state,” Becerra said. “As a former deputy attorney general, I relished the chance to be our state’s chief law enforcement officer to protect consumers, advance criminal justice reform and, of course, keep our families safe.”
If confirmed by the state Senate and Assembly — as expected — Becerra will serve the final two years of Harris’ term and become California’s first Hispanic attorney general.
Brown’s office said the governor will nominate a replacement for Becerra’s seat in Congress once it becomes vacant.
