BREAKING: California Congressman Eric Swalwell has officially declared his candidacy for governor, unveiling his campaign on Jimmy Kimmel Live just hours ago. Swalwell, who represents much of eastern Alameda County and parts of central Contra Costa County, emphasizes that he is running to combat rising costs and restore confidence among Californians.
Swalwell’s campaign website states, “I’m running for Governor because prices are too high and people are scared.” He asserts that the next governor’s responsibilities are twofold: defending California against former President Donald Trump and fostering a “new California” that prioritizes affordability for its residents. His focus on housing and job creation is designed to alleviate the financial strain faced by families across the state.
The Congressman, who grew up in Dublin, California, highlighted his journey from being raised in a Republican household to his leadership roles in Congress, including serving on the House Intelligence Committee. Swalwell was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013 and transitioned to represent District 14 in 2023. He has been involved in pivotal investigations, including those related to Trump’s impeachments, and has noted his lawsuit against Trump concerning the January 6 Capitol riots as a significant aspect of his political journey.
Swalwell’s campaign message resonates with many voters who share his vision for a more equitable California. “My promise is this: if you work hard you should do better for yourself and dream bigger for your kids. That’s the new California promise,” he stated, appealing directly to the aspirations of families striving for a better future.
He joins a competitive field of candidates aiming to succeed Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited and cannot run again in 2026. The Democratic landscape is shaping up with several notable figures, while prominent Republican challengers include former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.
The primary election for California’s governor is scheduled for June 2, 2026. As the race heats up, Swalwell’s announcement is poised to draw significant attention, reflecting the urgent need for leadership that addresses the challenges facing Californians today.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The race for California’s future is officially on!