Xavier Becerra, a former Biden Cabinet member who was able to consolidate institutional Democratic support in the final months of the June gubernatorial primary, will advance to the November election, according to the Associated Press.

Becerra — whose candidacy appeared to be a long shot until sexual misconduct allegations in April ousted former Rep. Eric Swalwell — saw his polling numbers skyrocket in recent months.

A former attorney general of California, Becerra capitalized on his decades in public service and his experience suing President Donald Trump to win over Democratic voters. He was able to secure major donations from McDonald’s and Meta, as well as real estate and medical interests.

Becerra will almost certainly face off in the November race against Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News commentator who has railed against Democratic control of Sacramento. California’s majority-Democratic electorate means Becerra’s chance of becoming the next governor is high.

“More than ever, California needs our voices and our values,” Becerra said in a statement Friday. “To the people and the voters of California, this is your state. … We will not be bought. We will not be bullied. And we are never backing down.”

As of Friday evening, Becerra had 26.7% (1.7 million) of the state’s vote, while Hilton had 26.4% (1.6 million).

Becerra’s victory is bad news for Tom Steyer, who has 21% (1.3 million) of the vote.

Paul Mitchell, vice president of Political Data Inc., said Hilton’s continued gains in vote share since Election Day will be difficult for Steyer to overcome.

“With today’s results, the runway is shortening for Steyer,” he said.