Eric Swalwell announces run for California governor, vows to be ‘protector and fighter’
In a bold move signaling his aspirations for higher office, Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, announced on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” that he will be launching his campaign for governor of California in the 2026 election. Known for his vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump, Swalwell’s announcement comes as he positions himself as a champion for Californians, emphasizing his commitment to public safety and economic growth. In a tweet responding to Trump’s criticism of Kimmel, Swalwell hinted at the former president’s likely displeasure with the episode, showcasing his knack for engaging in the political banter that has characterized much of his career.
Swalwell’s campaign focuses on two primary objectives: keeping Trump’s influence out of California and fostering a new narrative for the state centered on lower living costs and business development. He articulated his vision in an interview with the *San Francisco Chronicle*, stating his goal is to be a “protector and fighter” for all Californians, regardless of their political affiliation. His background as the son of Republicans and a law enforcement family, along with his experience as a prosecutor, positions him as a candidate who understands the diverse needs of the state. This approach aims to resonate with voters concerned about public safety and economic stability, two pressing issues in California today.
Swalwell is entering a competitive race to succeed current Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited and has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the Democratic presidential primary in 2028. The Democratic field is shaping up to be robust, with notable figures such as former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Representative Katie Porter, and billionaire activist Tom Steyer also eyeing the gubernatorial seat. On the Republican side, candidates like former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are gearing up for their campaigns. As the political landscape evolves, Swalwell’s entry into the race adds another layer of intrigue to California’s future governance and the broader national political narrative.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCMOYaVnUgw
Rep.
Eric Swalwell
, D-Calif., announced on Thursday he is launching a campaign for California governor in 2026.
The congressman and longtime foe of President
Donald Trump
made the announcement during an appearance on the late-night show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”
“He’s going to hate tonight’s episode,” Swalwell wrote on X in response to a social media post from the president criticizing Kimmel for being “biased” and having “no talent.”
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The Democrat lawmaker vowed to be a “protector and fighter” if elected governor.
Swalwell told the San Francisco Chronicle ahead of his announcement that the next governor of the Golden State should have two objectives.
“One, keep Trump out of our homes, streets and lives,” he said, adding that the second is to “write the story of a new California on lower prices, on business growth and modernizing the state.”
“I’m running to be a governor for all Californians,” he later told MediasTouch. “I’m the son of two Republicans, the son of a cop, and I grew up in a law-enforcement family. I worked as a prosecutor myself. I know that whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat in this state, public safety for yourself, your kids, and your community is a top priority.”
Swalwell is seeking to replace California Gov.
Gavin Newsom
, also a Democrat, after the 2026 gubernatorial election.
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Other candidates include former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and billionaire activist and 2020 presidential candidate Tom Steyer for the Democrats and former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco for the Republicans.
Newsom, who is term limited as governor, has been floated as a potential top candidate for the Democratic presidential primary in 2028.
