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Swalwell Exits Amid California Gubernatorial Race Turmoil

4/19/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell's (D-Calif.) exit amid sexual misconduct allegations coincides with shifts in California's gubernatorial race, where Steve Hilton leads at 17%.
Chad Bianco and Tom Steyer each hold 14% in polls, with Xavier Becerra at 10%.
Xavier Becerra has gained momentum, with Democratic support up 15%.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan stands at 5%, while 23% remain undecided, raising concerns about a GOP lockout in the primary.

History

Historical Context

In California's 2018 gubernatorial election, Gavin Newsom secured a historic 59.4% of the vote, reflecting a significant Democratic shift in the state. With over 8 million registered Democrats, the party mobilized voters effectively. Currently, Eric Swalwell's exit amid misconduct allegations raises concerns about party unity, echoing past electoral dynamics and the potential for a Republican lockout in future primaries.

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Story summary

U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell's (D-Calif.) exit amid sexual misconduct allegations coincides with shifts in California's gubernatorial race, where Steve Hilton leads at 17%.
Chad Bianco and Tom Steyer each hold 14% in polls, with Xavier Becerra at 10%.
Xavier Becerra has gained momentum, with Democratic support up 15%.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan stands at 5%, while 23% remain undecided, raising concerns about a GOP lockout in the primary.

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