California

Gov. Brown Nominates California Rep. Xavier Becerra as Next California Attorney General

California Gov. Jerry Brown has chosen U.S. Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-CA) to succeed Kamala Harris as state attorney general.

Becerra is the current representative for California's 34th congressional district in Los Angeles County. 

Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate last month.

The governor announced the choice Thursday, noting Becerra's service not only in Congress but in the state Legislature and as a deputy attorney general.

"Governor Brown has presented me with an opportunity I cannot refuse — to serve as Attorney General of my home state," Becerra wrote in a statement Thursday. "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."

"I have accepted Governor Brown's nomination," Becerra added. "I never thought as a child that I’d have the privilege to even walk through the halls of Congress, let alone travel to Washington."

Becerra has served in the House since 1992.

The nomination is subject to confirmation by the state Assembly and Senate. It will be officially submitted after Harris resigns. 

Harris made a statement about the selection Thursday

"Congressman Xavier Becerra is a dedicated public servant who has fought tirelessly for California’s immigrants, homeowners, and working families," the statement read. "The next Attorney General of California will be tasked with upholding our mission to protect and serve the people as the state’s chief law officer, fight for our constitutional values of fairness, equality, and justice, and protect the most vulnerable among us. I look forward to working with the Congressman and am fully committed to ensuring a smooth and successful transition"

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us