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Becerra Accused of ‘Red Boxing’ as Outside Groups Line Up in California Governor’s Race

The episode highlights how campaigns steer outside money through public cues.

Overview

  • Becerra’s campaign, which posted a red‑boxed “Voters Need to Know” page Tuesday, laid out attacks on Tom Steyer and even suggested Facebook content for “progressive voters on the go.”
  • Campaign‑finance experts called the page a textbook case of red‑boxing, a public signal that guides independent spenders on what to say and whom to target without direct contact.
  • Becerra’s team said the page simply contrasts records, while Steyer’s campaign accused him of telling allies in industry how to spend against Steyer.
  • Two independent expenditure committees are being formed to support Becerra, including one connected to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s longtime advisers.
  • California’s watchdog has not commented and any complaint would likely extend past the June 2 primary, which could let outside ads shaped by the cues reach voters before any ruling.