California Governor Race Revamped After Swalwell's Exit

Tue Apr 14 2026 16:18:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Eric Swalwell's withdrawal from the California governor race opens up a wide field of candidates, scrambling party loyalties and adding tension ahead of the upcoming primary elections.

Following allegations of misconduct, Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell suspends his California governor campaign and plans to resign from Congress. His exit leaves a competitive landscape fraught with uncertainty as candidates rush to attract his supporters ahead of the critical June primary. With over 50 candidates vying, Democrats fear a split vote may jeopardize their chances in this strongly Democratic state.

LOS ANGELES — In a dramatic turn of events, Democratic U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell has officially suspended his campaign to become California's next governor amid serious allegations of misconduct, leading to a reshaped political landscape just weeks before the state’s primary elections.

Initially seen as a frontrunner for the position, Swalwell's decision to step back from the race also includes plans to resign from Congress, affecting the dynamics of a crowded field. His withdrawal allows other candidates to vie for the support of his former backers, as lawyers prepare to present further allegations against him.

California's primary on June 2 could see over 50 candidates competing in an unpredictable landscape, where Democrats are concerned about the fragmentation of their voter base potentially jeopardizing their chances in the November elections.

Amidst this turmoil, Republicans remain undecided on a single candidate, with endorsements split between various figures, including conservative commentator Steve Hilton. The internal strife within the Democratic Party hints at a struggle for unity as they navigate the fallout from Swalwell’s exit.