Eric Swalwell Announces Candidacy for California Governor in 2026

Representative Eric Swalwell, a prominent critic of the Trump administration, has officially announced his intention to run for governor of California in the 2026 election. This announcement was made on his official campaign website, which launched on the evening of October 12, 2023, ahead of his scheduled appearance on the late-night television show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Swalwell, who has represented California’s 14th Congressional District since 2013, previously served as a prosecutor for Alameda County. His political career includes a bid for the presidency during the 2020 election cycle, where he focused on gun control and advocated for a complete ban on assault rifles. As he embarks on his gubernatorial campaign, Swalwell faces not only the challenges of a competitive election but also the potential for legal scrutiny.

Recent reports indicate that Bill Pulte, the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, has referred Swalwell to the Justice Department over allegations of tax and mortgage fraud. According to CBS News, Swalwell has publicly denied any wrongdoing, stating, “The only thing I am surprised about is that it took him this long to come after me.” This referral adds a layer of complexity to his gubernatorial ambitions.

Political Landscape and Swalwell’s Legacy

Swalwell’s political history is marked by his vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump. He has described himself as “the most vocal critic of Donald Trump over the last decade,” a claim supported by his role as one of the impeachment managers during Trump’s second impeachment trial. Currently, Swalwell is involved in an ongoing lawsuit against Trump, which alleges that the former president’s actions incited the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol.

As Swalwell prepares to enter the race, he will join a diverse field of candidates vying for the gubernatorial position, as current Governor Gavin Newsom is being termed out. The upcoming election is poised to attract significant attention, not only due to the candidates involved but also the pressing issues facing California, including housing, healthcare, and climate change.

With the election still several years away, Swalwell’s campaign is expected to evolve, particularly as he navigates the potential investigation and the implications it may hold for his candidacy. The political climate in California remains dynamic, and Swalwell’s entry into the race adds another layer of intrigue to the 2026 governor’s race.