Eric Swalwell Enters Frantic California Governor Race

Eric Swalwell Jumps into Crowded California Governor's Race

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell officially announced his candidacy for California governor on Thursday night, joining an already crowded field of contenders vying to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. The East Bay congressman made the explosive declaration during a high-profile appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he received a standing ovation from the studio audience.

"California's next governor has two jobs. One, keep the worst president in history out of our homes, out of our streets, and out of our lives. The second is to bring a new California."

- Eric Swalwell, via campaign statement

Swalwell's Anti-Trump Campaign Platform

Swalwell immediately framed his campaign around fierce opposition to President Donald Trump, positioning himself as "the most vocal critic" of the administration over the past decade. He emphasized his history of confronting Trump, including serving as an impeachment manager during Trump's second trial and filing a lawsuit alleging the former president's role in the January 6 Capitol attack.

"I'm running for Governor because prices are too high and people are scared," Swalwell declared in his campaign launch statement. He vowed to protect Californians from "ICE agents" and "troops in our streets," referencing fears about federal immigration enforcement under Trump.

Turbulent Launch Amid Legal Controversy

The announcement comes amid a fresh controversy, as the Trump administration recently referred Swalwell to the Justice Department over alleged mortgage and tax fraud. Swalwell dismissed the accusations as "nonsense" during his Kimmel interview, quipping: "The only thing I am surprised about is that it took him this long to come after me."

Swalwell's campaign site features direct attacks on Trump, highlighting his unique position as "the only gubernatorial candidate taking him on in real time." He also questioned Trump's recent signing of a bill requiring the release of Jeffrey Epstein files, suggesting he doesn't trust the documents will be fully unsealed.

Historic Field of Candidates

Swalwell's entry swells an already historic gubernatorial field with over 20 major contenders. Other prominent Democrats include former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, Rep. Katie Porter, former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and billionaire Tom Steyer. Republicans in the race feature pundit Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

Swalwell brings a unique blend of experience to the race, having served in Congress since 2013 after stints as a Dublin City Council member and Alameda County prosecutor. His 2020 presidential run focused heavily on gun control, advocating for a complete ban on assault rifles.

What's at Stake for California

The 2026 election will shape California's response to Trump's policies, particularly regarding immigration enforcement, energy production (Trump recently announced new offshore drilling plans), and social programs. Swalwell's campaign emphasizes affordability and job creation while positioning the state as a "fighter and protector" against federal overreach.

With Newsom barred from seeking reelection due to term limits, the race has attracted national attention as a potential bellwether for Democratic strategy in the Trump era. Swalwell's combative style and established anti-Trump credentials could energize progressive voters in a state that consistently opposes the president.