Swalwell exits California governor race amid sexual assault allegations

LOS ANGELES (AP) — After the dramatic downfall of Democratic U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, the race for California governor is moving on. Swalwell suspended his campaign and announced he would resign from Congress following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman. A lengthy lineup of remaining candidates is scheduled to gather Tuesday in Sacramento, their first public appearance together since Swalwell's departure reshaped the wide-open contest.

Swalwell's exit presents an opportunity for his rivals to attract former supporters just weeks before mail ballots go to voters in early May. The outcome of the June 2 primary election featuring more than 50 candidates is unpredictable. Democrats have feared that the large field of candidates could result in the party being locked out of the November election, with only Republicans appearing on the general election ballot due to California's election rules.

Swalwell's decision to suspend his campaign followed allegations published in the San Francisco Chronicle and later by CNN. He stated, "I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that's my fight, not a campaign's." His name remains on the ballot despite his suspension. Many Democrats hoped prominent figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris or U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla would enter the contest, but they declined.

In the wake of Swalwell's exit, some state lawmakers quickly switched their support to billionaire hedge fund manager Tom Steyer, who is using his wealth to blanket media with ads. Steyer's business background may challenge the status quo, according to Assemblymember Nick Schultz. Meanwhile, San Jose's Democratic Mayor Matt Mahan criticized the remaining candidates, saying, "California deserves so much better."

Swalwell's swift downfall came amid rising pressure for him to leave Congress, having lost support from powerful labor unions and allies such as California U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff. The race remains wide open, with no clear leader emerging among the remaining candidates.