Story perspectives

Swalwell Surges in California Governor Race; Steyer Follows

2/22/2026

Center

Swalwell and Steyer Compete

In California's governor race, Rep. Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer have emerged as top contenders, with Swalwell polling at 14% and Steyer at 9%.
Swalwell has recently surpassed Katie Porter in polls.
Steyer's extensive ad spending has raised his profile among voters.
Rival candidates target them with criticisms of Swalwell's missed House votes and Steyer's tax proposals.
Emerson College poll shows 21% of voters undecided, underscoring a competitive primary.

Right

Hilton Leads Race

Steve Hilton (R) leads the California gubernatorial race with 17%.
Eric Swalwell (D) and Chad Bianco (D) each have 14%.
Democrats worry vote-splitting in the primary could let two Republicans advance and reshape the field.
Betty Yee (former state Controller) remains in the race as the upcoming state party convention looms large.

History

Historical Context

The 2003 California gubernatorial recall election marked a significant political shift, as voters replaced Democratic Governor Gray Davis with Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger, who garnered 48.6% of the vote among 135 candidates. This unprecedented recall, driven by discontent over Davis's handling of the state’s budget and energy crisis, set a precedent for future political contests, including the current competitive race featuring Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer.

1 of 3

Swalwell and Steyer Compete

In California's governor race, Rep. Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer have emerged as top contenders, with Swalwell polling at 14% and Steyer at 9%.
Swalwell has recently surpassed Katie Porter in polls.
Steyer's extensive ad spending has raised his profile among voters.
Rival candidates target them with criticisms of Swalwell's missed House votes and Steyer's tax proposals.
Emerson College poll shows 21% of voters undecided, underscoring a competitive primary.

1 / 3