Swalwell's Exit Shakes Up CA Governor Race

0:00The Swalwell scandal just flipped the script in California's governor race and a fresh poll from inside California politics and Emerson College. Captures the shake-up, out of 1,000 likely voter surveyed, Republican Steve Hilton leads with 17% support. Six candidates are pulling at least 5% each, showing a wide open field. Xavier Basera, the former U.S. health secretary, saw a big boost among Democrats after Swalwell bowed out. He went from lagging behind, to tying for a strong second-place spot on the left side. Political science professor Melissa Mikkelson points out how Swalwell's exit opened up space for Basera, changing the dynamics for everyone in the PEC. Voters are reacting by spreading support more evenly across party lines. Chad Bianco, the Republican sheriff, and Democrat Tom Steyer, are neck and neck at 14%, with style holding the top dem spot for now. Basera sits tied with Katie Porter at 10%.

1:00This poll keeps the momentum rolling into primary season, with no clear frontrunner yet expect more twists as campaigns heat up. Stay informed with California News Today, AI-powered updates.