Swalwell exits California governor’s race after assault allegations as rivals seek his supporters

Representative Eric Swalwell has withdrawn from the California governor's race following allegations of sexual assault published in the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN. Swalwell denies the allegations but stated his focus would be on clearing his name. His exit has injected further uncertainty into the crowded race, as candidates now compete for his supporters ahead of the June primary. Katie Porter and Tom Steyer are among those vying for Swalwell's former base, with Steyer already securing an endorsement from Representative Jared Huffman. Despite Swalwell suspending his campaign, his name will remain on the ballot. With a large field of candidates and mail-in ballots arriving soon, the race remains highly competitive and without a clear frontrunner.