California Governor Candidates Face Backlash Over Past ICE Funding Votes

Swalwell and Porter criticized for supporting federal immigration enforcement as tensions rise after Minneapolis shooting

Jan. 28, 2026 at 2:39pm

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Two leading Democratic candidates for California governor, Rep. Eric Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter, are facing criticism from fellow Democrats over their past votes to fund and support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The backlash comes as tensions escalate following the recent shooting death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.

Why it matters

The debate over ICE funding and immigration enforcement has become a key issue in the crowded California governor's race, with candidates seeking to differentiate themselves and appeal to the state's diverse electorate. The fallout from Pretti's death has further heightened scrutiny of the candidates' past positions on these matters.

The details

Swalwell, D-Dublin, voted last year in favor of a Republican-sponsored resolution condemning an attack in Boulder, Colorado that injured at least eight people demonstrating in support of Israeli hostages. The resolution also expressed "gratitude to law enforcement officers, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel, for protecting the homeland." Porter, meanwhile, joined majorities of Democratic House members in supporting various spending packages that included billions for a border wall and funding for ICE during former President Trump's first term.

  • In June 2025, Swalwell voted to fund ICE.
  • In 2019 and 2020, Porter voted for bills to fund ICE and the border wall.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman representing California's 15th district and a candidate for California governor.

Katie Porter

A former Democratic congresswoman and a candidate for California governor.

Antonio Villaraigosa

A former Democratic mayor of Los Angeles and a candidate for California governor.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old intensive care nurse from Minneapolis who was fatally shot by federal immigration agents during a protest.

Renee Good

A 37-year-old mother from Minneapolis who was shot in the head by an ICE officer on January 7.

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What they’re saying

“The fact that Eric Swalwell stood with MAGA Republicans in Washington to thank ICE while in California masked ICE agents terrorized our communities - despite Swalwell's notorious and chronic record of absenteeism from Congress, is shamefully hypocritical.”

— Antonio Villaraigosa, Former Mayor of Los Angeles

“What Eric voted for was a resolution to condemn a horrific antisemitic attack in Boulder, CO that killed Karen Diamond, an 82-year old grandmother. The truth is no one has been more critical of ICE than Eric Swalwell.”

— Swalwell Campaign Spokesman

“When others have stayed quiet, Katie has boldly spoken out against ICE's lawlessness and demanded accountability.”

— Peter Opitz, Porter Campaign Spokesman

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.