Rep. Eric Swalwell's resignation from Congress has sparked a chain reaction in California politics. The sudden departure has left a vacancy in the 14th congressional district, which Governor Gavin Newsom can fill with a special election within 14 days. However, experts doubt the likelihood of this happening, as the winner would only serve for a brief period.
The district is expected to remain in Democratic hands, with state Senator Aisha Wahab and San Leandro Councilmember Victor Aguilar, Jr. leading the pack. Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee is investigating Swalwell's behavior, and the Manhattan district attorney's office has announced a probe.
Swalwell's exit also affects the California Governor's race, where he was a leading candidate. With nine notable candidates remaining, including billionaire philanthropist Tom Steyer and former Congresswoman Katie Porter, the field is wide open. Democrats are concerned that the large number of candidates may divide the vote, allowing Republican contenders Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco to advance to the November election.
