LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — Eric Swalwell used late-night television to launch his bid for California governor, turning a national spotlight onto a crowded and competitive race. The seven-term Democratic representative announced his run during a November 20 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s ABC show. He told viewers he was ready to seek the state’s top job and framed the choice of venue as a deliberate signal of how he plans to campaign.
Swalwell said he wanted to reach voters outside traditional political spaces. He also highlighted President Donald Trump’s attempt to push Kimmel off the air, suggesting it made the platform an ideal place to show he is not afraid to confront political opponents. Swalwell described himself as “a fighter and a protector.” He said California needed a leader willing to defend residents and address the state’s most urgent problems.
The congressman said he loved bragging about California’s status as the world’s fourth-largest economy. But he warned that economic strength means little if families cannot afford to live there. Rising housing costs and inflation remain central election concerns. Swalwell said he wants to center his campaign on affordability, economic stability, and safety for all Californians.
Swalwell’s announcement reshapes an already busy race to succeed Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is termed out after two terms. His entry follows billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer’s recent announcement. It also adds to a growing slate of experienced Democratic contenders. Former Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former State Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and former State Controller Betty Yee are all in the race.
On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton, a former adviser to former U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron, are leading early efforts. Developer Rick Caruso is also considering a run. Political strategists expect the race to draw national interest because of California’s size, influence, and role in shaping Democratic policy.
Swalwell, 45, began his public career as a prosecutor in Alameda County. He later built a national profile through his confrontational stance toward Trump. He served as a House impeachment manager during Trump’s second impeachment trial. That trial focused on the former president’s role in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
For eight years, Swalwell served on the House Intelligence Committee, including the CIA subcommittee. There, he became a key Democratic voice on national security, foreign interference, and election integrity. His work made him a frequent presence on cable news during major investigations. Swalwell also helped found the Future Forum caucus to represent younger voters and push for policies centered on innovation, education, and economic mobility.
Swalwell said California must protect its economic gains by ensuring residents can build stable lives. He argued that high housing prices and income inequality threaten the state’s future. He said he would focus on making the state more affordable for families, young professionals, and long-term residents who feel squeezed out by rising costs.
He also said he wants to strengthen public safety and address national security issues that affect California. His campaign is expected to highlight his experience on intelligence matters and his record of confronting foreign interference. He said he aims to bring a national-security mindset to state leadership.
Swalwell’s high-profile entry adds new energy to a race already filled with seasoned political figures. His decision to announce on late-night television signals his strategy to reach broad audiences and energize younger voters. Analysts say his background and media presence could help him stand out, though the race remains wide open.
With months to go before the primary, California voters will hear competing visions for affordability, safety, and economic growth. Swalwell said he is ready to make his case and fight for the future of the state he loves.
