Rep. Eric Swalwell Announces Run for California Governor

Sun Nov 23 2025 11:55:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has officially declared his candidacy for governor of California during an appearance on ABC’s 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'.

Eric Swalwell, a prominent Democratic congressman known for his role in the impeachment trial of Donald Trump, revealed his bid for California governor on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'. Advocating for lower costs and higher wages, Swalwell positions himself as a defender against perceived threats from former President Trump. He emphasizes the need for a strong leader to address the challenges facing California as various candidates gear up for the upcoming gubernatorial election.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat and former House manager in Donald Trump’s 2021 impeachment trial, has taken a significant step by launching his bid for the governorship of California.

During an announcement made on ABC's 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on Thursday night, Swalwell articulated his aspirations for the state, focusing on economic improvements. Our state, this great state, needs a fighter and a protector, he asserted. Someone who will bring prices down, lift wages up.

Swalwell, who has had notable confrontations with Trump, is eager to extend his political battles in California, stating, Our state is under attack. He criticized Trump for a range of policies, claiming that they endanger the well-being of Californians, including canceling cancer research and pursuing immigrant communities aggressively.

The timing of Swalwell's announcement coincides with renewed criticism levied by Trump against both him and comedian Kimmel, reflecting the ongoing tensions in California's political landscape. Trump's remarks demanded ABC remove Kimmel from the air, igniting further media spotlight on Swalwell's campaign.

Representing a northern California district since 2012, Swalwell previously ran in the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries, pausing that campaign to endorse now-President Joe Biden. His candidacy for governor adds him to a growing list of contenders for the role, aiming to succeed the term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Among Swalwell's opponents are notable Democrats, including billionaire activist Tom Steyer and Rep. Katie Porter, intending to shake up California’s political hierarchy in the upcoming all-party primary this June.