California Governor’s Race 2026

Sen. Adam Schiff, D‑Calif., has formally endorsed Rep. Eric Swalwell in California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, releasing a video saying he is backing his 'friend' to be the state’s next governor and that 'the Golden State will be in good hands with Eric Swalwell.' Swalwell, who has represented a Bay Area district since 2013, said he was honored by the support and framed his bid around 'lowering costs for families' and 'protecting our democracy from Donald Trump.' The endorsement comes in a crowded Democratic field to replace term‑limited Gov. Gavin Newsom that includes former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, ex‑Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, billionaire Tom Steyer, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton. The race is drawing national attention because California is a key battleground over immigration enforcement, ICE cooperation and Trump‑era federal–state conflicts, and Schiff’s backing could help consolidate establishment support behind a candidate whose comments about making former ICE agents 'unhirable' in California have already fueled controversy.