SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Diya TV) — California will hold a special election on Aug. 18 to fill a vacant U.S. House seat in the state’s 14th Congressional District, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday. The vacancy follows the resignation of former Rep. Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations. Newsom issued an official proclamation ordering the election to fill the open seat. The move sets the stage for a high-profile contest in one of California’s key congressional districts.
The governor’s office confirmed that voters in California’s 14th Congressional District will head to the polls on Aug. 18, 2026. The election will determine who will serve the remainder of the term in the U.S. House of Representatives. In his proclamation, Newsom stated that the election is necessary to fill the vacancy created by Swalwell’s resignation. State officials will now begin preparations for the election, including candidate filing deadlines and ballot arrangements. The announcement gives potential candidates a clear timeline. It also signals the start of what could become a competitive race in the district.
Swalwell’s resignation came after allegations of sexual assault surfaced, prompting calls for accountability. He stepped down from Congress, leaving the seat open and triggering the need for a special election.
The development has drawn attention from both major political parties. The district, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, has long leaned Democratic. Still, the sudden vacancy could create an opportunity for new political figures to emerge. Political analysts expect a crowded field of candidates. Local leaders, state lawmakers, and community advocates may enter the race in the coming weeks.
California law requires a special election when a congressional seat becomes vacant. The governor holds the authority to set the election date through a formal proclamation. Election officials will oversee the process to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Voter registration deadlines, early voting options,s and mail-in ballot procedures will be announced soon.
Candidates will need to file official paperwork to enter the race. Campaigns are expected to ramp up quickly as the August date approaches. Voters in the district will play a key role in determining who represents them in Washington. The outcome could influence legislative priorities and party dynamics in Congress.
State officials are urging eligible voters to participate in the special election. Turnout in special elections often falls below that of general elections, making each vote more impactful. Efforts to inform voters about the election are already underway. Local election offices plan to provide updates through official websites and public notices. Community organizations may also play a role in encouraging voter engagement. Outreach efforts will likely focus on increasing awareness about the election date and the importance of participation.
