Story perspectives

Swalwell Faces Backlash Over $113K PG&E Donation Amid Energy Pledge

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democratic California governor frontrunner, faces criticism for accepting $113,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) employees while pledging to lower energy costs.
PG&E, California's largest utility, has a history of rate hikes and wildfire-linked felony convictions.
Tom Steyer accuses Swalwell of being beholden to PG&E and pledges to cut utility rates by 25%.
Recent polls show Swalwell leading Democrats, but concerns persist about Republican dominance.

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Story summary

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democratic California governor frontrunner, faces criticism for accepting $113,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) employees while pledging to lower energy costs.
PG&E, California's largest utility, has a history of rate hikes and wildfire-linked felony convictions.
Tom Steyer accuses Swalwell of being beholden to PG&E and pledges to cut utility rates by 25%.
Recent polls show Swalwell leading Democrats, but concerns persist about Republican dominance.