Swalwell Exit Upends California Governor’s Race as Democrats Scramble

Eric Swalwell’s suspension of his campaign and resignation from Congress after sexual-misconduct allegations throws the California governor’s race into disarray just as ballots head to voters for the June 2 jungle primary. With Swalwell out, rivals like Katie Porter and Tom Steyer are left to absorb his supporters, but the field lacks a clear standout; other contenders such as Xavier Becerra, Antonio Villaraigosa and Matt Mahan are vying for openings. Analysts warn the fractured field could, in theory, allow two Republicans to advance, though Trump’s endorsement and California demographics still make a Democratic victory in the general likely. The scramble accelerates as Democrats try to consolidate support before ballots are mailed.