Full Breakdown
Swalwell's Missed Votes Targeted in Steyer's Campaign Ad
2/17/2026, 6:21:37 AM
Campaign Ad Highlights Missed Votes
In a recent campaign ad, billionaire gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer has leveraged videos of Representative Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., to criticize his attendance record in Congress. The ad features Swalwell's own statements, where he expresses that he "should be working," juxtaposed with footage of him at the gym and by the pool during the 2025 government shutdown. The ad asserts that Swalwell missed 95 votes during this period, which Steyer highlights as a significant failure for someone seeking a promotion to governor.
Context of the Government Shutdown
The government shutdown, which lasted over 40 days, was a contentious political event. Swalwell, in his videos, attributed his absence from Congress to Republican actions, claiming they sent lawmakers home to avoid voting on critical issues, including transparency regarding the Epstein files. He stated, "I should be working right now. I should be in Congress," while showcasing his leisure activities. This narrative has been met with skepticism, as critics point out that Swalwell's missed votes included those during a time when some of his colleagues were unable to vote due to their passing.
Criticism of Swalwell's Campaign Strategy
Critics have noted that Swalwell's focus on social media and personal fitness may detract from his responsibilities as a legislator. Jonathan Turley, a Fox News contributor, remarked on social media that Swalwell's videos, while entertaining, do not justify his absence from critical votes. The ad from Steyer has been described as "savage" and "brutal," indicating a shift towards a more aggressive tone in the Democratic primary race for California governor.
Official Statements & Responses
Swalwell's campaign has not publicly responded to the criticisms regarding his missed votes as of the latest reports. The lack of a statement from Swalwell or his representatives raises questions about how his campaign will address these concerns moving forward.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies in the reported number of votes missed by Swalwell. While Steyer's ad claims he missed 95 votes, GovTrack.US indicates that Swalwell missed 102 out of 139 roll call votes, equating to a 73% absence rate from September 19, 2025, to February 9, 2026. This inconsistency highlights the contentious nature of the political landscape as both candidates vie for support.
What's Next
As the primary race heats up, it remains to be seen how Swalwell will respond to the mounting criticism regarding his voting record and campaign strategy. The Democratic primary is expected to intensify, with candidates likely to continue leveraging each other's weaknesses as they seek to secure their positions in the upcoming election.
