Rep. Eric Swalwell Announces Run for California Governor

Fri Nov 21 2025 16:21:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

California Congressman Eric Swalwell has officially launched his campaign for governor during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, positioning himself as a defender of California against the attacks from former President Trump.

In a spirited declaration on ABC’s 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', Rep. Eric Swalwell, known for his role in the impeachment of Donald Trump, has declared his candidacy for governor of California. He emphasized his commitment to fight for the prosperity of Californians by tackling high prices and stagnant wages, while criticizing Trump's policies which he claims have adversely affected the state.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat and former House manager in the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, has officially entered the race for California governor.

During his announcement on ABC’s 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on Thursday, Swalwell spoke passionately about his vision for the state. Our state, this great state, needs a fighter and a protector, he said. Someone who will bring prices down, lift wages up.

Swalwell, representing a Northern California district since 2012, framed his candidacy as a response to what he described as increasing attacks on Californian values by Trump. He highlighted Trump’s actions which he believes have harmed the state, including the cancellation of critical programs and increased militarization of local streets.

Our state is under attack, Swalwell stated on his campaign website. He criticized Trump for undermining pivotal initiatives such as cancer research and clean energy projects, and for targeting immigrant communities.

Alongside Swalwell, the race is becoming crowded with a range of Democratic candidates including billionaire Tom Steyer, Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, all vying for the opportunity to succeed the term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom.

This all-party primary in June will determine the two candidates who will advance to the November general election, marking a pivotal moment for California's political landscape.