The California state flag flutters on a flagpole. The 2026 governor’s race has brought a crowded field of candidates vying for the state’s top job.

A new poll of the California governor’s race shows the early effects of former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s fall from grace.

After several allegations of sexual assault and misconduct against the Bay Area congressman broke over the last week, Swalwell abruptly exited the California governor’s race. He had been one of the leaders of the Democratic pack, and with him no longer running, the field is once again wide open, a new poll from Emerson College shows. 

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The poll, commissioned by conservative-leaning Nexstar Media Group and KTLA-TV’s “Inside California Politics,” is the first major survey since Swalwell dropped out. It offers an early snapshot of how Democratic voters are reshuffling their support, although two Republican candidates are still holding an advantage at the very top. 

Republican and former Fox News contributor Steve Hilton ranked highest with 17% support, making him the strongest candidate in the crowded field so far. His support has been narrow but steady for the last........

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