New poll could alter April 22 debate lineup on KSEE24

Nexstar Media Group to conduct statewide survey after Rep. Eric Swalwell's exit from California governor's race

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:05am

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A fractured, overlapping painting of a California state capitol building in motion, with vibrant blue, gold, and red geometric shapes and brushstrokes conveying a sense of political change and uncertainty.The shifting political landscape in California's gubernatorial race is reflected in a dynamic, avant-garde visual metaphor.Los Angeles Today

The field for the upcoming Inside California Politics gubernatorial debate is likely to shift following the sudden exit of Rep. Eric Swalwell, who dropped out of the race over the weekend amid allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct. Nexstar Media Group has announced a new statewide survey to finalize the debate stage for the April 22 event, with four contenders already qualified and several high-profile candidates still eligible to qualify.

Why it matters

The California governor's race is a high-stakes election, and the debate stage can significantly impact voter perceptions and the outcome. Swalwell's departure leaves an opening for other candidates to potentially qualify and participate, which could alter the dynamics of the debate and the overall campaign.

The details

Under the Nexstar criteria, all participants must meet a 5% support threshold in the new statewide poll conducted by Emerson College Polling. In addition to the polling requirement, candidates must also satisfy baseline eligibility requirements, such as being legally qualified and listed on the ballot, or being a write-in candidate who meets all legal qualifications.

  • The new statewide poll will be in the field this week.
  • The Inside California Politics gubernatorial debate is scheduled for April 22.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A former Democratic candidate for California governor who dropped out of the race over the weekend amid allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct.

Nexstar Media Group

The media company hosting the Inside California Politics gubernatorial debate and conducting the new statewide poll to finalize the debate stage.

Emerson College Polling

The polling firm conducting the new statewide survey for Nexstar Media Group.

Katie Porter

A Democratic candidate for California governor who has already qualified for the April 22 debate.

Tom Steyer

A Democratic candidate for California governor who has already qualified for the April 22 debate.

Steve Hilton

A Republican candidate for California governor who has already qualified for the April 22 debate.

Chad Bianco

A Republican candidate for California governor who has already qualified for the April 22 debate.

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What they’re saying

“The upcoming poll offers a critical opportunity for several high-profile candidates who fell short of the 5% mark in March to qualify for the debate.”

— Matthew Rosenfeld, Nexstar SVP & regional manager

What’s next

The results of the new poll and the final list of candidates that will be invited to the debate stage will be released by the end of the week.

The takeaway

The California governor's race is a high-stakes election, and the debate stage can significantly impact voter perceptions and the outcome. Swalwell's departure leaves an opening for other candidates to potentially qualify and participate, which could alter the dynamics of the debate and the overall campaign.