Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra announced he is leaving Congress after being offered the position of California attorney general Thursday.
Becerra, who has represented California’s 34th congressional district for the past 24 years, became one of the Democratic party’s most influential voices on Capitol Hill, and was once a contender to be former presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton’s running mate. He says leaving Congress is the right decision despite being seen by many as a rising star in the caucus.
“Governor Brown has presented me with an opportunity I cannot refuse — to serve as Attorney General of my home state. 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,” he said in a statement. “I have accepted Governor Brown’s nomination. 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 was slated to be termed out of his role as Democratic caucus chairman, leaving him with few opportunities to stay in leadership with the incoming administration, which likely made Brown’s offer even more appealing.
He said the opportunity to serve as the state’s AG was too enticing to turn down, despite being the favorite in his race to succeed Ranking Member Sandy Levin on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.
“I’m eternally grateful to my family and constituents and my colleagues, from Leader Nancy Pelosi to our newest Members, whose support continues to energize me everyday,” he continued.
Becerra received strong support from his Democratic colleagues on his decision, with Pelosi saying he’ll bring “tremendous experience and expertise, courage and wisdom to the office of California’s top law enforcement officer.”
Levin echoed Pelosi’s sentiments, praising his work in the House and congratulating him on the offer.
“The State of California and Californians will be well served by Xavier’s tenacity and dedication to principles of equality, opportunity and inclusion,” Levin said in a statement. “I know he feels a special responsibility during these difficult times to look after vital legal interests in his home state.”
If confirmed, a special election is expected to be scheduled to fill his seat.
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