Swalwell Exit Shakes California and National Democrats

The sudden withdrawal of U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell from California’s governor’s race has created immediate political uncertainty. His decision affects both the state contest and the national Democratic Party. Swalwell ended his campaign this week. He stated he did not want to divide the Democratic vote. His exit leaves three main Democrats running: Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and former state Controller Betty Yee. The open primary system in California adds complexity. The top two vote-getters in the March 2024 primary, regardless of party, will compete in the general election. Democrats now fear that without a clear frontrunner, two Republican candidates could advance. This would shut Democrats out of the race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom. The implications extend beyond California. National Democratic groups may now need to spend significant money to ensure a Democrat makes the November ballot. These are funds they would prefer to use in other competitive states. The race to lead America’s most populous state is now a new test of Democratic strategy and unity.