Representative Eric Swalwell has officially launched his campaign for California governor, entering what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive statewide races in recent history. The announcement came late Thursday night, moments before his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, marking a dramatic entrance into a crowded field of contenders looking to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Swalwell, who has represented California’s 14th Congressional District for seven terms, has spent much of the past decade as one of Donald Trump’s most visible critics in Congress. From the 2021 impeachment proceedings—where he served as one of the managers—to countless high-profile clashes on cable news, Swalwell has built a national identity as a Democrat unafraid to confront the former president head-on. That identity now forms the core of his pitch to California voters.

In the message posted on his campaign website, the 45-year-old lawmaker said he entered the governor’s race because “prices are too high and people are scared,” pledging to become “California’s fighter and protector.” He framed the moment as a turning point for the state, one where leadership must be both “bold and unafraid.”

Swalwell also sharply criticized Trump, vowing to “keep the worst president in history out of our homes, out of our streets, and out of our lives.” He accused the former president of weaponizing the Justice Department, citing a recent referral for investigation that he said came directly from Trump allies. Swalwell has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing related to the claims.

During his conversation with Jimmy Kimmel, the congressman became emotional when speaking about California’s immigrant communities, saying it “infuriates” him to see workers “running through fields to escape ICE agents” or families feeling unsafe in their own neighborhoods. Part of his gubernatorial agenda, he said, centers on restoring trust, expanding protections, and rebuilding what he calls “a California where every family can thrive.”

While Swalwell enters the race with national name recognition, he faces an exceptionally large pool of contenders. More than 20 candidates have declared, including billionaire Democratic donor Tom Steyer, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Fox News host Steve Hilton, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

The Democratic field has shifted rapidly throughout 2025. Earlier exits from Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former legislative leader Toni Atkins, and former Rep. Katie Porter reshaped the landscape, while Sen. Alex Padilla’s decision not to run removed what could have been a top-tier contender. With no clear frontrunner, the primary remains wide open.

Swalwell’s bid is expected to appeal to voters who want a strong counter to Trump and the political forces aligned with him. His supporters argue that he brings experience, name recognition, and a record of confronting national threats. Critics, however, question whether his aggressive posture toward Trump will resonate with Californians seeking a more domestic policy-focused vision.

In his announcement, the congressman emphasized that the heart of his campaign will be affordability, housing, and job creation. “The next governor must build a new California,” he said, “where opportunity is not a dream but a guarantee.”

Whether Swalwell can turn his national profile into statewide momentum remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the 2026 race for California governor has just become even more explosive.

FAQ

1. Who is Eric Swalwell?
Eric Swalwell is a Democratic congressman from California known for his outspoken opposition to former President Donald Trump.

2. Why is he running for governor?
Swalwell says he is running because Californians are struggling with high costs, fear, and uncertainty—and he wants to fight for affordability, safety, and job creation.

3. What are his key campaign issues?
His priorities include affordable housing, economic opportunity, immigrant protections, and resisting Trump-aligned policies.

4. Who are the other major candidates?
Notable contenders include Tom Steyer, Antonio Villaraigosa, Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton, and Chad Bianco.