California Gubernatorial Race Shifts After Swalwell's Withdrawal

Tue Apr 14 2026 21:08:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The California gubernatorial landscape has dramatically changed following Rep. Eric Swalwell's abrupt exit from the race, raising concerns among Democrats about their chances in upcoming elections.

Rep. Eric Swalwell's exit from the California governor's race has left the Democratic field uncertain as mail-in voting approaches. The state's unique top-two primary system could see two Republicans advancing, leading to fears of a Democratic shutout. Key candidates include veteran politicians and new faces with varied backgrounds, while the party grapples with divided voter preferences.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The stunning collapse of Rep. Eric Swalwell's California governor campaign has upended the wide-open contest where no Democratic candidate has emerged as a clear frontrunner and mail-in voting is scheduled to start in under a month.

Democrats, who have run the state for years, are publicly agonizing over the possibility they may be shut out of the general election in November. Despite their party’s dominance in the state, concerns about a divided party vote persist, with the potential for two Republicans to advance.

The upcoming race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited, has grown contentious as candidates grapple with issues surrounding debate eligibility and identity politics.

Chad Bianco, Republican

A Republican county sheriff from Riverside County and a supporter of President Trump, Bianco has over 30 years of law enforcement experience. He made headlines for seizing half a million ballots amid a vote count investigation, an action facing legal challenges.

Steve Hilton, Republican

Hilton, a former Fox News commentator and adviser to David Cameron, has received endorsements from Trump but faces a fragmented field.

Katie Porter, Democrat

Former congressmember Porter is known for her tough questioning style and represents a progressive voice in the race.

Tom Steyer, Democrat

Billionaire activist and former presidential candidate, Steyer is funding his campaign primarily with personal wealth but faces scrutiny over his past business dealings.

Matt Mahan, Democrat

The mayor of San Jose Mahan portrays himself as a moderate democrat in a race dominated by established names.

Betty Yee, Democrat

Yee has long been part of California politics, struggling to gain traction in her governorship bid.

Xavier Becerra, Democrat

The former U.S. health secretary, Becerra has experience, but his campaign lacks momentum amidst past controversies.

Antonio Villaraigosa, Democrat

Once the mayor of Los Angeles and the first Latino in that role in over a century, Villaraigosa seeks a second chance after a previous failed gubernatorial run.