Schiff Backs Swalwell in CA Governor Race, Fixated on Jan. 6

Senator Adam Schiff endorses Rep. Eric Swalwell for California governor, citing their work on Trump impeachment.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) has endorsed Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) in California's 2026 governor's race. Schiff cited their work together investigating former President Trump and his role in the January 6th Capitol attack. However, Schiff's continued fixation on January 6th comes as the Supreme Court has narrowed the Justice Department's use of obstruction charges in related cases.

Why it matters

Schiff's endorsement and focus on January 6th highlights the ongoing political divisions in California, where voters are showing broader dissatisfaction with Democratic leadership. Swalwell's campaign has also had to navigate past controversies, including his ties to a suspected Chinese spy.

The details

Schiff stated that Swalwell 'has the vision and strength to take on our state's biggest challenges and make real progress.' He praised Swalwell's 'leadership role in the impeachment trial after the President incited a violent mob to attack the capitol on January 6th.' However, the Supreme Court's recent Fischer v. United States ruling has narrowed the Justice Department's use of obstruction charges in January 6th cases, potentially weakening claims that the events constituted an 'insurrection.' Swalwell's campaign has also had to address his past interactions with a suspected Chinese spy, Christine Fang, which raised security concerns.

  • Schiff endorsed Swalwell in February 2026 for California's governor race.
  • The Supreme Court's Fischer v. United States ruling was issued prior to Schiff's endorsement.

The players

Adam Schiff

A Democratic senator from California who previously served in the House of Representatives and was a key figure in the investigations and impeachment of former President Trump.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is running for governor in 2026 and previously served on the House Intelligence Committee with Schiff.

Christine Fang

A suspected Chinese spy who reportedly took part in fundraising activity for Swalwell's 2014 campaign and placed an intern in his office.

Song Ru'an

A Chinese diplomat who was photographed with Swalwell in 2013, with the photo later 'liked' by Fang.

Kevin McCarthy

The Republican Speaker of the House who argued that Schiff's use of fabricated evidence and Swalwell's relationship with Fang disqualified them from holding positions with access to sensitive intelligence.

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What they’re saying

“Eric Swalwell has the vision and strength to take on our state's biggest challenges and make real progress, from lowering costs for families to protecting our democracy from Donald Trump. We worked together to investigate Trump during his first presidency, and Eric played a leadership role in the impeachment trial after the President incited a violent mob to attack the capitol on January 6th.”

— Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator

“I am honored to have the support of Senator @AdamSchiff as we work together to tackle our state's biggest challenges — from lowering costs for families to protecting our democracy from Donald Trump.”

— Eric Swalwell, U.S. Congressman (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.