SACRAMENTO, Calif. (FlashPoint) — California Rep. Eric Swalwell promised to push back against federal immigration enforcement during a campaign event on Tuesday, vowing to make such officers ineligible for state jobs and to revoke their driver's licenses if they refuse to unmask while on duty.
“They think they’re invincible. They’re not,” Swalwell declared at a Sacramento town hall, kicking off a series of campaign events as the state prepares for the June 2 primary. He did not detail how he would implement these proposals, which may face legal hurdles.
Swalwell's campaign is intensifying with only weeks to go before mail-in ballots are distributed. He is among several candidates in a competitive race for governor, where the top two vote-getters advance to the November general election, regardless of party affiliation. Democrats are concerned about the possibility of a lock-out of Democratic candidates if no clear leader emerges.
Pursuing a narrative of being a progressive fighter, Swalwell highlighted his experience as a key impeachment manager during Donald Trump's second trial. He reiterated support for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and cutting its funding, especially after recent high-profile immigration sweeps in Los Angeles.
Positioning himself as a labor-friendly candidate, Swalwell also identified plans to address state budget deficits through a new corporate tax and allocate funds to provide healthcare for low-income individuals, including immigrants. Additionally, he advocated for allowing state employees to work remotely, echoing sentiments that resonate amid ongoing workplace debates in Sacramento.
This election cycle is notably competitive, with Swalwell emerging as a significant contender alongside billionaire Tom Steyer and former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter for the Democratic nomination. Meanwhile, Republican Steve Hilton, having received an endorsement from Trump, intensifies the primary battle.
In deflecting criticisms from fellow Democrats regarding his congressional attendance and claims questioning his California residency, Swalwell asserted that he would remain focused on his platform and plans for governance, while he seeks to capitalize on the dynamic political landscape as the primary approaches.
