California’s political landscape has shifted significantly following the resignation of Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) due to multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. These accusations not only led to his departure from Congress but also ended his gubernatorial aspirations.
The race to replace Swalwell has two prominent contenders: progressive state Senator Aisha Wahab and moderate Democrat and Bay Area Rapid Transit Board President Melissa Hernandez. Their contest will determine who fills Swalwell’s seat for the remainder of the term, and both candidates will compete again in the November midterms.
Swalwell stepped down in April after facing sexual assault allegations from at least five women. Before these allegations surfaced, he was campaigning for the governor’s office, but he subsequently withdrew.
The special election, held on June 16 in California’s 14th Congressional District, adopted a jungle primary format. Under California law, top vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation. Wahab and Hernandez emerged as the leading candidates, continuing a pattern seen across Democratic primary races where far-left progressives challenge establishment Democrats.
Wahab, serving in the state Senate since 2022, advocates for aggressive policies toward ICE, aiming to facilitate lawsuits against agents, reduce prescription drug costs, and promote investments in renewable energy. Her campaign is supported by groups like Our Revolution, founded by Senator Bernie Sanders, and endorsed by figures such as Attorney General Rob Bonta and Congress members Pramila Jayapal and Greg Casar.
Conversely, Hernandez adopts a moderate stance on immigration. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants, she acknowledges issues within the immigration system and supports smart border security alongside regional cooperation. Nearly a dozen Congressional members have endorsed her.
Wahab faced controversy when her father urged her supporters on Facebook to “call ICE” on Hernandez, prompting an apology from her campaign.
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