Eric Swalwell is suspending his campaign for Governor

Representative Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor and formally resigned from Congress as of April 14, 2026, following a series of serious sexual misconduct and assault allegations. The sudden exit of the former Democratic frontrunner has plunged the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom into chaos just weeks before primary ballots are mailed to voters on May 4. While Swalwell categorically denies the claims—stating he will fight them "outside of a gubernatorial campaign"—his departure has forced major unions and party leaders to rescind their support and left rivals like Tom Steyer and Katie Porter scrambling to consolidate his former base. In response to the vacancy in the 14th Congressional District, Governor Newsom has already proclaimed a special election for August 18, 2026.