Rep. Eric Swalwell of California is reportedly exploring a run for governor, potentially positioning himself as one of the most prominent contenders in what is shaping up to be a competitive race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom. According to a new report from MSNBC, two individuals described as close to the congressman say Swalwell has been weighing the move for several weeks and could make his intentions public as early as next week.

The congressman has not spoken openly about a gubernatorial bid, and those reportedly familiar with his deliberations emphasized that he has kept discussions limited to a small number of trusted advisers. When contacted by MSNBC, Swalwell declined to comment on the speculation. However, one source told the network that several of the congressman’s supporters have privately encouraged him to enter the race to fill what they described as a “fighter” or “protector” role—an image they believe would resonate with Democratic voters accustomed to Newsom’s assertive political style.

If Swalwell does join the race, he would enter a field already drawing attention from across California’s political landscape. The state’s term limits prevent Newsom from seeking another term, creating an opening that several Democratic figures have long anticipated.

A Democratic Field Already Taking Shape

Among the most notable potential candidates is former Rep. Katie Porter, who developed a national following during her tenure in Congress and is seen by many Democratic strategists as an early frontrunner. Porter’s reputation for consumer advocacy and her energetic campaign style have made her a familiar figure in California politics, giving her an advantage in fundraising and recognition should she formally enter the race.

Another contender generating discussion is Xavier Becerra, the former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and California’s former attorney general. Becerra has decades of political experience in the state and a deep network of allies. His statewide electoral record positions him as a formidable competitor should he decide to run.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who previously ran for governor in 2018, is also reportedly preparing to re-enter the political arena. Villaraigosa, who once led the largest city in the state, would likely compete for moderate Democrats and Latino voters, two blocs that could play a significant role in determining the outcome of the primary.

In addition, Las Vegas businessman and prominent Democratic donor Stephen Cloobeck has signaled interest in running an outsider-style campaign. Known for his involvement in tourism and philanthropy, Cloobeck has indicated he may seek to contrast himself with career politicians.

One noteworthy absence from the emerging field is Sen. Alex Padilla, who has frequently been mentioned in past discussions about the governor’s office. Padilla announced earlier this week that he would not be seeking the governorship, narrowing the list of major Democratic figures expected to compete.

A New Challenge Emerges for Swalwell

While the speculation around Swalwell’s potential candidacy has intensified, the congressman has faced a resurfacing of past controversies at an unfortunate time. Earlier in the day, a former Trump administration official issued a referral to the Department of Justice requesting an investigation into the congressman over allegations involving mortgage and tax matters. Although no charges have been filed and the referral does not represent a formal accusation by law enforcement, the development has drawn new attention to questions that have followed Swalwell intermittently throughout his career.

The DOJ referral follows years of recurring criticism centered on Swalwell’s past interactions with a Chinese national later identified by federal authorities as an intelligence operative. That episode, which came to light during the Trump administration, has remained a subject of scrutiny among some political figures and media commentators. Swalwell has consistently denied any wrongdoing and said he cooperated fully with investigators when the matter was first reported.

While neither the resurfaced allegations nor the new referral from a former federal official automatically translate into legal exposure, they could complicate the congressman’s path should he enter the governor’s race. Political strategists note that a high-profile statewide campaign would almost certainly reignite debate over his past controversies, increasing pressure on the congressman to address them in detail.

A Potentially Transformative Campaign

If Swalwell decides to run, his candidacy could alter dynamics within the Democratic primary. Over the past decade, he has cultivated a national profile through his congressional work, including his service on the House Intelligence Committee. He also briefly launched a presidential campaign in 2019, a move that raised his national visibility even though he exited the race early.

Supporters argue that his experience in national security issues, coupled with his reputation as an aggressive defender of his party’s positions, could energize certain segments of the Democratic base. They also believe he would be able to mount a strong statewide fundraising operation.

Critics, however, say that Swalwell’s high-profile controversies—and the political narratives that have emerged around them—could make him a polarizing figure in a race where candidates often attempt to appeal to a broad coalition that spans the ideological spectrum of California’s Democratic electorate.

Political observers note that California gubernatorial campaigns tend to emphasize management style, statewide vision, and the ability to navigate the complex governance challenges facing the country’s most populous state. Any candidate entering the race must address issues such as housing affordability, homelessness, crime, infrastructure, wildfires, and the economy—topics that frequently dominate political debate in the state.

If Swalwell joins the campaign, he would need to outline a detailed vision for addressing these challenges while also navigating renewed scrutiny of his own history.

What Comes Next

For now, the congressman has not announced a final decision. Sources cited by MSNBC say that his advisers are evaluating timing, political landscape, and the potential impact of entering a race that could quickly become one of the most closely watched Democratic primaries in the nation.

The emerging field of candidates is expected to take shape in the coming months as contenders formally declare their intentions. With several high-profile Democrats already positioning themselves, any announcement from Swalwell could have immediate ripple effects across the state’s political landscape.

For now, the only certainty is that California’s upcoming gubernatorial race is on track to become a major political story—potentially featuring national figures, returning local leaders, and renewed debates over past controversies. Whether Swalwell decides to take his place among the candidates could soon become clear.