State and National Politics

Eric Swalwell’s surprise withdrawal from the 2026 California governor’s race has scrambled the crowded field and intensified questions about who can consolidate his supporters as the state moves toward its top-two primary. The exit arrives as polling shows Democrat Tom Steyer at roughly 28% and Republican Steve Hilton at about 25%, with other contenders such as Katie Porter near 18% — a distribution that leaves the contest tight and the order of finish uncertain. Campaigns and strategists have rapidly shifted messaging and fundraising plans, retreating from narrow niche appeals and trying to build broader coalitions to capture the voters Swalwell once courted.