Eric Swalwell Uses Jimmy Kimmel Appearance to Announce His Future Political Plans [WATCH]

Rep. Eric Swalwell of California announced Thursday that he is running for governor in the 2026 election.

Swalwell revealed his candidacy during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and later shared the news on social media.

In a post on X reacting to President Donald Trump’s criticism of Kimmel, Swalwell wrote, “He’s going to hate tonight’s episode.”

He’s going to hate tonight’s episode pic.twitter.com/8jiAWLXbVf

— Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) November 20, 2025

Ahead of the announcement, Swalwell told the San Francisco Chronicle that he believes the next governor of California should focus on two key objectives.

“One, keep Trump out of our homes, streets and lives,” he said.

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He added that the second objective is to “write the story of a new California on lower prices, on business growth and modernizing the state.”

Swalwell later told MediasTouch, “I’m running to be a governor for all Californians. I’m the son of two Republicans, the son of a cop, and I grew up in a law-enforcement family. I worked as a prosecutor myself. I know that whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat in this state, public safety for yourself, your kids, and your community is a top priority.”

Swalwell described his platform as one centered on being a “protector and fighter” for Californians as he begins his campaign to succeed Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom.

🚨 BREAKING: Rep. Eric Swalwell is officially running for GOVERNOR of California

He made the big announcement on Jimmy Kimmel, and it was so scripted😭

“I love California. It’s the greatest country in the world.” (??) pic.twitter.com/71D8QMHlnQ

“I came here tonight Jimmy, to…

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 21, 2025

Newsom is term limited and cannot run again in 2026.

Several other candidates are also entering the race.

On the Democratic side, those running include former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, and billionaire activist and 2020 presidential candidate Tom Steyer.

Republican candidates include former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

The 2026 gubernatorial race is expected to draw national attention as California prepares for its first open governor’s seat since 2010.

California needs a fighter and protector. I’m running for Governor. pic.twitter.com/foJ6PX58bq

— Eric Swalwell (@ericswalwell) November 21, 2025

Newsom, who is completing his second term, has been discussed as a potential contender in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary.