Steyer ribs Swalwell for missing votes in California governor race ad
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
California’s Democratic gubernatorial race has heated up with Tom Steyer taking aim at Rep. Eric Swalwell over his absence from key votes in the U.S. House. In a campaign ad, Steyer mocked Swalwell for missing several votes while running for governor, calling it “old-fashioned” but necessary to show up to work to earn a promotion. The ad featured a video highlighting Swalwell’s absences, with Steyer questioning his commitment to public service and leadership.
The criticism comes as both candidates are vying for the attention of Democratic voters in California, where turnout is expected to be high in the primaries. Steyer’s attack appears aimed at undermining Swalwell’s credibility among voters who value accountability and dedication to public duty. Meanwhile, Swalwell has focused on his experience in Congress and his progressive policy platform, including criminal justice reform and climate action.
This clash highlights the competitive nature of the California gubernatorial race, with candidates emphasizing their qualifications and attacking each other’s records. Steyer’s critique of Swalwell’s attendance underscores a broader theme in the race: whether voters trust the candidate to balance state leadership with federal responsibilities. For readers interested in politics, this moment reflects the high-stakes battle for California’s top office and the importance of candidates’ track records in shaping their campaigns.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/14/2026