As Gavin Newsom wraps up his last term as California’s governor, several contenders are lining up to replace him. The latest to enter the race is Representative Eric Swalwell
Rep. Eric Swalwell officially launched his campaign for California governor on Nov. 20, declaring himself a “protector and fighter” for the state. The East Bay congressman made the announcement during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Thursday night.
“Our state, this great state, needs a fighter and a protector,” Swalwell told Kimmel. “Someone who will bring prices down, lift wages up.”
Swalwell’s two main objectives if elected are clear: pushing back on Donald Trump and making California more affordable. Swalwell believes the next governor must keep Trump “out of our homes, streets and lives” while also ushering in a new era of California that focuses on lower costs, economic growth and modernization.
“Nancy Pelosi selected me for the Intelligence Committee and to help lead the impeachment of a corrupt president,” Swalwell said in his promotional video on his website.
Swalwell’s entry comes amid an already crowded lineup. Among the 14 publicly declared candidates are Tom Steyer, a hedge fund billionaire and 2020 presidential candidate, Antonio Villaraigosa, former mayor of Los Angeles, and Betty Yee, the California Democratic Party’s vice chair.
However, Swalwell believes he is the best fit for the position.
“No one will keep Californians safer than I will,” Swalwell said. “No one.”
Scroll to continue reading
The California gubernatorial election will take place on Nov. 3, 2026, and the primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, according to the California Secretary of State.