Former U.S. Health Secretary and California Attorney General Xavier Becerra is the latest Democrat to enter the race to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2028, joining seven other Democrats and one Republican — a flush field that could be upended should former Vice President Kamala Harris decide to run.

Democrat Xavier Becerra on Wednesday launched a run for governor of California, potentially pitting himself against former Vice President Kamala Harris.

Becerra has a long resume in California politics, including serving in the statehouse, as California’s attorney general and in Congress.

Becerra said he would protect the rights of every Californian, including those of trans people, as California's governor.

Xavier Becerra, a Sacramento native, also became the first Latino secretary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2021.

Former Biden administration Health Secretary Xavier Becerra on Wednesday became the latest Democrat to join the crowded field seeking to become California’s next governor, a contest that could be dramatically reshaped if former Vice President Kamala Harris becomes a candidate.

The former state attorney general plans on making his decadeslong political resume a central selling point in his campaign.

This week, the large field of candidates in the race for California Governor grew even bigger, as Xavier Becerra, the former Congressman, California Attorney General, and Biden HHS Secretary, threw his hat into the ring.