Monday, November 24, 2025

Swalwell Makes First Campaign Stop in Fire-Ravaged Altadena After Governor Bid Announcement

Congressman Eric Swalwell [photo credit: Congressman Eric Swalwell Faccebook]

The congressman pledged support for wildfire survivors and spotlighted affordability and recovery issues during his visit

Rep. Eric Swalwell visited Altadena on Friday for his first campaign stop after announcing his candidacy for California governor, pledging support for wildfire survivors and vowing to fight for affordability and recovery in the state.

Swalwell, 45, toured neighborhoods devastated by January’s Eaton Fire, met with first responders and community members, and held a news conference with Altadena Town Council leaders.

The visit came less than 48 hours after his televised announcement.

“My heart beats with Altadena, and I will be a governor that always fights for Altadena,” Swalwell said. He added, “People are scared and prices are high, and I have been a fighter, a protector for this state in Congress.”

Swalwell enters a crowded 2026 gubernatorial field that includes Katie Porter, Xavier Becerra, Antonio Villaraigosa, Betty Yee, Tom Steyer, Tony Thurmond, and Republicans Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton. Polls show 44 percent of voters undecided.

He spotlighted California’s film industry, saying: “TV and film is the bread and butter of the California economy… I’m going to fight for an above-the-line credit to bring back TV and film to California.”