Story perspectives

California Governor's Race: Swalwell Pushes Housing, Debate Criticized

3/23/2026

Center

Swalwell's Housing Emergency

California governor's race centers on a March 24, 2026 debate, with polls showing no clear frontrunner among Eric Swalwell, Tom Steyer, and Chad Bianco.
Eric Swalwell aims to declare a statewide housing emergency and address rising utility costs.
Xavier Becerra criticized the debate criteria for excluding candidates of color and favoring wealthier contenders.
The debate will be broadcast live before the November 3, 2026 primary election.

Right

Swalwell's Mansion Controversy

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democratic candidate for California governor, faces scrutiny for missing congressional votes while staying at Stephen Cloobeck's mansion.
Critics, including Elizabeth Ashford, say Swalwell's social media at Cloobeck's estate undercuts his duties.
Swalwell has received support from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), raising questions about his pledge to lower utility rates.
Cloobeck has donated heavily to Swalwell and provided a $31,000 trip to France.

History

Historical Context

The Fair Housing Act of 1965 aimed to combat housing discrimination in the U.S., yet California now faces a severe housing crisis, with over 1.5 million residents struggling with affordability. As candidates like Eric Swalwell declare emergencies, the debate underscores ongoing disparities, with Xavier Becerra criticizing exclusionary practices. This reflects a broader struggle for equitable housing access, shaping California's political landscape ahead of the November 2026 primary election.

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Swalwell's Housing Emergency

California governor's race centers on a March 24, 2026 debate, with polls showing no clear frontrunner among Eric Swalwell, Tom Steyer, and Chad Bianco.
Eric Swalwell aims to declare a statewide housing emergency and address rising utility costs.
Xavier Becerra criticized the debate criteria for excluding candidates of color and favoring wealthier contenders.
The debate will be broadcast live before the November 3, 2026 primary election.

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