Democratic frontrunner in the California governor’s race, Rep. Eric Swalwell, is facing scrutiny over his residency claims as neighbors in Livermore contradict his assertions of living in the state for nearly nine years while serving in Congress.
Despite Swalwell's insistence, residents of the Livermore cul-de-sac where he claims to have resided since 2017 stated they have never met him. Gita Prusty, a resident of Michell Court for five years, expressed surprise at Swalwell's claim, stating she had never seen him. Lauren Antony, living two doors down from Swalwell's listed address since birth, also confirmed she had never encountered him.
Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer heightened the criticism of Swalwell's residency claims, calling for an investigation by the California Secretary of State's office. Attorney Ryan Hughes, representing Steyer, argued that Swalwell is a California resident "on paper only" and should be removed from the June primary ballot for failing to meet residency requirements after relocating his family to Washington, DC.
Swalwell, a former prosecutor, submitted a sworn affidavit asserting his California residency since 2006 and residence in Livermore since 2017. Records indicate he lists a property owned by Nicholas and Kristina Mrzywka as his domicile, with Kristina affirming the lease agreement with Swalwell and his wife Brittany.
Despite these claims, Swalwell's neighbors dispute his presence at the Livermore residence. Campaign records reveal extensive hotel charges within and outside his congressional district, including stays at luxury hotels like the Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park and The Rose Hotel in Pleasanton.
Legal experts, including Loyola Law School professor Jessica Levinson, highlight concerns over Swalwell's compliance with California's residency requirements for gubernatorial candidates. Swalwell's campaign declined to address questions regarding his lease terms or the discrepancy with his neighbors' accounts.
In response, Swalwell criticized Steyer and media scrutiny on social media, citing concerns for his family's safety due to the public disclosure of his address. Steyer's campaign refrained from commenting on the matter.
The controversy surrounding Swalwell's residency claims originated from a lawsuit by filmmaker Joel Gilbert, with state officials yet to indicate whether an investigation will be conducted into the matter. Attorney General Rob Bonta's opinion suggests that the Secretary of State is not mandated to verify candidates' claimed residences.
As the issue unfolds, public attention remains on Swalwell's residency assertions and the implications for his candidacy in the California governor's race.
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