Eric Swalwell's Shocking Move: What His California Governor Run Means for YOUR Future!

On Thursday, Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell announced his candidacy for the California gubernatorial race, joining a field that has seen numerous candidates vying to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited after winning election in 2018. Swalwell revealed his intentions on his campaign website shortly before making the announcement live on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

“I came here tonight, Jimmy, to tell you and your audience that I am running to be the next governor of California,” Swalwell stated during his appearance, signaling an energetic start to his campaign. He claimed, “I will be California’s fighter and protector,” emphasizing his commitment to defending the state against what he calls attacks from the federal government. He pointed fingers at President Donald Trump for "militarizing our streets," canceling cancer research, and undermining clean energy projects, asserting that these actions threaten the welfare of California residents and immigrants.

No clear frontrunner has emerged in this evolving primary race, which has already seen a number of noteworthy candidates either decline to run or exit the race due to various controversies. Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced her decision not to run in late July, while former legislative leader Toni Atkins and Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis stepped back earlier this year. Additionally, former Rep. Katie Porter's campaign faced challenges after videos of her emotional outbursts during an interview went viral, leading to a decline in her support.

Porter’s stumble provided an opportunity for Sen. Alex Padilla, who was considered a strong candidate following his election in 2022 after being appointed to the Senate in 2020. However, Padilla declined to enter the race early in November, stating his commitment to continue his work in the Senate.

Other prominent candidates include former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, and former Fox News host Steve Hilton. The dynamics of this race reflect a constantly shifting political landscape in California.

Swalwell, who rose to prominence during Trump’s first term as a key antagonist from his role on the House Intelligence Committee, faced a setback when Republicans retook control of the U.S. House in 2023, leading to his removal from the committee alongside now-Senator Adam Schiff. The seven-term congressman briefly ran for president in 2019, focusing on issues like gun control and advocating for generational change within the Democratic Party.

As the race unfolds, it is clear that Swalwell's entry adds yet another layer to an already competitive field. With no single candidate firmly establishing themselves as the frontrunner, the upcoming months will be critical as candidates position themselves to appeal to a diverse electorate in California. The gubernatorial race is shaping up to be not just about leadership but also about how candidates communicate their vision and respond to the challenges facing the state's residents.