The gubernatorial candidate reportedly seen as a dark horse favorite by Gavin Newsom’s team has suddenly shot up in the polls. Xavier Becerra  — who previously served as Secretary of Health and Human Services under Joe Biden — has seen a remarkable spike in support after the abrupt collapse of Eric Swalwell’s campaign . Swalwell, once viewed as a leading Democratic contender, exited the race amid multiple allegations of sexual assault and rape, as well as a Department of Justice investigation.