Story perspectives

Swalwell Leads California Race Amid Vote-Splitting Concerns

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Eric Swalwell leads the California gubernatorial race with 17% support in recent polls.
Republican Steve Hilton follows with 13%.
Experts warn that vote-splitting among Democrats could benefit Republicans if low-polling candidates remain in the race.
Nearly 25% of voters are undecided, signaling a fluid race.
California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks plans to release polling data regularly to encourage candidates to assess viability and potentially drop out.

1 of 1

Story summary

Rep. Eric Swalwell leads the California gubernatorial race with 17% support in recent polls.
Republican Steve Hilton follows with 13%.
Experts warn that vote-splitting among Democrats could benefit Republicans if low-polling candidates remain in the race.
Nearly 25% of voters are undecided, signaling a fluid race.
California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks plans to release polling data regularly to encourage candidates to assess viability and potentially drop out.