In a bold move that promises to shake up California politics, Rep. Eric Swalwell, known for his role as a House manager during former President Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the California gubernatorial race.
Swalwell made his announcement during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on ABC, where he passionately outlined his vision for the state. He emphasized his commitment to improving the lives of Californians, stating, “Our state, this great state, needs a fighter and a protector. Someone who will bring prices down, lift wages up.”
The congressman didn’t shy away from addressing his contentious history with Trump, signaling his determination to continue the fight on home turf. “Our state is under attack,” Swalwell declared in a statement on his campaign website, accusing Trump of militarizing the streets, cutting essential programs like cancer research, and threatening the state’s immigrant communities.
The announcement on Kimmel’s show came amidst a backdrop of renewed tensions between Trump and the network. Earlier in the week, Trump had renewed his attacks on ABC and Kimmel, following the network’s temporary suspension of the comedian in September over comments made after the assassination of GOP activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension was lifted after public backlash, but Trump continued his criticism, urging ABC on social media to “get the bum off the air.”
Swalwell’s entry into the gubernatorial race marks a significant moment as he seeks to leverage his national profile and past confrontations with Trump to galvanize support and bring his agenda to Sacramento. The coming months will reveal whether his blend of political experience and combative spirit can capture the hearts of California voters.
Swalwell’s announcement on Kimmel’s late-night show came after renewed attacks from Trump on ABC and Kimmel this week. The network temporarily suspended the comic in September for remarks made following the assassination of GOP activist Charlie Kirk. ABC lifted the suspension following a public outcry. On Thursday, the president urged ABC to “get the bum off the air” in a social media post.
Swalwell represents a northern California district where he was first elected in 2012. He was a candidate in the 2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries before dropping out and endorsing Joe Biden.
More than a half dozen Democrats and two Republicans are competing in an all-party June primary, with the top two vote-getters advancing to a November general election to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. Other Democratic candidates include billionaire businessman and activist Tom Steyer, former Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.
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