Rep. Eric Swalwell Considers Gubernatorial Run in California
Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) is reportedly weighing the possibility of running for governor of California, potentially stepping into a race where Katie Porter currently leads.
According to two anonymous sources familiar with the congressman, an announcement regarding his plans could happen as soon as next week. He has yet to comment publicly on this, but a source close to him has indicated that his allies are encouraging him to adopt a role similar to that of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom—a “fighter/protector” type, as they described it.
If Swalwell decides to enter the race, he would face significant competition, including former Rep. Katie Porter, former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and businessman Stephen Krubeck. Notably, Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) has already stated he will not be running for governor.
In a related note, authorities have reportedly referred Swalwell to the Justice Department for potential federal criminal investigation concerning allegations of mortgage and tax fraud.
Swalwell has been one of Donald Trump’s most vocal critics for quite some time. In his own words, he remarked, “The only thing that surprises me is that it took him this long to go after me.”
In the past, Swalwell faced scrutiny for ties to a suspected Chinese spy, Christine Fang, who had connections with California politicians. Fang assisted Swalwell in fundraising for his 2014 congressional campaign and even helped place an intern in his office. He severed ties with her in 2015 after receiving advice from U.S. intelligence agencies.
In 2021, reports emerged indicating that U.S. intelligence had compiled a classified document detailing the nature of Swalwell’s relationship with Fang. However, by 2023, the House Ethics Committee concluded its investigation into the matter without any further charges against him.
Swalwell has consistently denied any inappropriate connection with Fang, asserting that she was a target of the Chinese government rather than an ally.
