The race to replace former Rep. Eric Swalwell, D‑Calif., has become the focus of California’s 14th Congressional District. Swalwell resigned in April after multiple sexual assault allegations, leaving his seat open for a special election. The June 16 jungle primary will determine which candidate fills the remainder of the term and will also serve as the ballot for the November general election.
Candidates
Two Democrats have emerged as the top vote‑getters in the open‑primary field:
- Melissa Hernandez – President of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Board and daughter of Mexican immigrants. Hernandez describes the immigration system as “broken” but says she “supports smart border security and regional cooperation.” She is positioned as a moderate on immigration and other key issues and has earned endorsements from roughly a dozen members of Congress.
- Aisha Wahab – State Senator since 2022, backed by progressive groups such as Our Revolution, the Democratic Socialists of America, and several progressive members of Congress. Wahab’s platform includes tougher action against ICE, legislation that makes it easier for citizens to sue federal agents, lower prescription‑drug prices, and increased investment in green and renewable energy.
Both candidates qualified for the top‑two runoff under California’s open‑primary system, which advances the two highest vote‑receivers regardless of party affiliation.
Campaign dynamics
The contest reflects a broader trend in Democratic primaries, where far‑left progressive challengers seek to unseat establishment‑aligned candidates. Wahab’s stance on ICE has drawn attention after her father urged supporters on Facebook to “call ICE” on Hernandez, prompting the Wahab campaign to issue a public apology.
Hernandez, meanwhile, emphasizes a pragmatic approach to immigration, acknowledging system flaws while advocating for secure borders and regional cooperation. Her moderate positioning has attracted a coalition of congressional endorsements, signaling establishment support.
What’s at stake
The winner will serve the remainder of Swalwell’s term and then face the same opponent again in November’s general election. The race will shape the district’s representation on issues ranging from immigration enforcement to health‑care costs and climate policy.
Voters in the 14th District, which includes parts of the East Bay and the city of Oakland, will receive ballots on June 16. Early voting locations and hours are available through the California Secretary of State’s website.
Looking ahead
Both campaigns are intensifying outreach as the primary approaches. Local community groups, faith‑based organizations, and family‑focused voters are being courted, reflecting the district’s diverse demographic makeup. The outcome will provide an early indicator of how progressive and moderate forces within the Democratic Party are faring in a post‑Scandal political environment.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
