Court Challenge to Swalwell’s Gubernatorial Candidacy

California Representative Eric Swalwell may not be eligible to run for governor due to a recent court argument stating he doesn’t officially reside in the state. This comes from right-wing commentator Joel Gilbert, who filed a complaint in Sacramento claiming that Swalwell actually lives in Washington, D.C., which disqualifies him under California law.

Gilbert’s filing highlights that a review of public records shows no evidence of Swalwell owning or leasing property in California. He pointed out that Swalwell’s campaign filing from December 4 listed an address that belongs to the congressman’s attorney and not to him. Additionally, Swalwell’s financial disclosures from 2011 to 2024 do not indicate any ownership of real estate in California.

According to the complaint, the residence listed by Swalwell is a law office, not a home. Meanwhile, Article 5, Section 2 of the California Constitution outlines that candidates for governor must be electors and residents of the state for the five years immediately preceding the election.

Gilbert argued that Swalwell should be disqualified, stating, “Either he’s guilty of mortgage fraud in Washington, D.C., or he’s ineligible to run for governor of California. He can’t have it both ways.” Swalwell, known for his criticisms of former President Trump, has yet to respond to these claims.

Born in Iowa and raised in California, Swalwell serves as a married father of three. He entered local politics as a member of the City Council in Dublin, California, in 2010, and became a congressman in 2013. He previously ran for governor but fell short in the last election.

Current California Governor Gavin Newsom was elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022 but cannot seek another term due to state term limits. There’s speculation he may consider a presidential run.

It’s common for long-serving members of Congress to maintain homes in both the capital and their home states, though the lines can sometimes become unclear.