Swalwell Residency Under Scrutiny in California Governor’s Race

As the race for California governor heats up, Representative Eric Swalwell is facing increased scrutiny over his residency, with rival candidate Tom Steyer leading the charge. Steyer has petitioned the California Secretary of State to enforce a seldom-used residency requirement, alleging Swalwell’s ties to the state are tenuous.

Residency Challenge and Declarations

Tom Steyer’s campaign argues that Swalwell “appears to live in California on paper only,” raising questions about his eligibility to run for governor. Politico first reported on the petition, which seeks to enforce a five-year residency requirement for gubernatorial candidates.

In response, Swalwell submitted sworn declarations affirming his California residency. A declaration from his landlord states he has rented and lived at a property in Livermore since 2017, maintaining significant belongings and receiving mail there. Swalwell also affirmed he holds a California driver’s license and is an active member of the State Bar of California, having been admitted in 2006.

Concerns Over Potential Legal Challenges

Despite the Secretary of State’s long-held position that the five-year residency requirement is unconstitutional, Steyer’s campaign warns that a potential Swalwell governorship could be challenged, particularly by a hostile federal administration. Political Wire reports Steyer’s general counsel cautioned that legal ambiguity could impact California’s authority regarding the National Guard, federal funding and emergency responses.

Ongoing Lawsuit and Privacy Concerns

The residency challenge is also part of an ongoing lawsuit brought by conservative filmmaker Joel Gilbert, who similarly questions Swalwell’s California ties. Gilbert’s suit centers on Swalwell listing a law firm’s address on his candidate intention statement.

Steyer’s petition included Swalwell’s home address, raising privacy and security concerns. Swalwell’s campaign consultant, Kate Maeder, criticized the disclosure as “negligent and thoughtless,” noting Swalwell has received over 100 death threats in the past year. Steyer’s campaign has not responded to questions regarding these concerns.

Democratic Support for Swalwell

Eleven Democratic members of the California Congressional Delegation have signed a letter denouncing Steyer’s residency challenge, with Swalwell’s campaign arguing Steyer is attacking renters and demonstrating a disconnect from California voters.

Surging Campaigns

Both Swalwell and Steyer have seen a surge in popularity in the California governor’s race, despite initial skepticism about their candidacies. Newsbreak reports that polls now place them among the top three Democratic contenders, capitalizing on a lack of breakout candidates in the field.