Democrats were already scrambling in California's governor race. Then Swalwell dropped out

April 13, 2026

California's 2026 gubernatorial race has descended into chaos after Democratic frontrunner Representative Eric Swalwell withdrew from the contest and resigned from Congress following sexual assault and misconduct allegations, which he denies. With no prominent Democrats remaining and eight lesser-known candidates splitting the vote, polling suggests two Republican candidates could claim both general election spots under California's top-two primary system, potentially shutting Democrats out entirely in a state they normally dominate. The leading Democratic contenders, Katie Porter and Tom Steyer, are now racing to consolidate Swalwell's support, but both face challenges in gaining name recognition and voter enthusiasm.

Who is affected

California Democratic Party and its eight gubernatorial candidates, particularly Katie Porter and Tom Steyer
Representative Eric Swalwell, who dropped out and resigned from Congress
Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco
California voters, who outnumber Republicans by a 2-1 ratio but face uncertainty about Democratic options
Undecided voters like Joko Tamura, Jacob Casey, and Leila Salem mentioned in the article
Governor Gavin Newsom, whose term limits prevent him from running
National Democratic Party, given California's influence on nationwide policy

What action is being taken

The US House of Representatives Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into Swalwell
Katie Porter is campaigning on economic messaging and housing cost solutions, posting on social media about fast-tracking housing approvals
Tom Steyer has spent $89 million on advertisements and released a video detailing plans to make California more affordable
Steyer is campaigning at locations like gas stations in downtown Los Angeles, criticizing Trump's actions in Iran
Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco are competing for GOP support

Why it matters

This race has significance beyond California's borders because the state represents the fifth-largest economy in the world, and its policies on environmental issues, consumer protection, and technology frequently inspire regulations nationwide. The potential for Republicans to lock Democrats out of the general election in one of America's bluest states—where Trump's approval rating is below 30%—would represent what political experts call "an unforced error of historic proportions." California hasn't had a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger left office in 2011, making this a potentially historic political shift that could reshape how the nation's most populous state governs on critical issues.

What's next

The race needs a few days "for the dust to settle" following Swalwell's exit, according to political science professor Wesley Hussey. If a large share of Swalwell's supporters consolidate behind Steyer, Porter, or even a last-minute surprise candidate, the state could see a traditional Democrat-versus-Republican general election. The primary election is scheduled for June 2, with the general election following in November, though undecided voters like Jacob Casey say they assume "somebody will stick out" at some point before the primary voting begins.

Read full article from source: BBC