The controversy that forcedEric Swalwell's withdrawal from the California governor raceproved pivotal in retrospect, as his exit has paved the way for two key candidates.
The Democratic Representative was an early frontrunner until allegations of sexual assault and misconduct derailed his campaign in April. He relinquished his gubernatorial bid and resigned from Congress.
While Swalwell vociferously denied the assault allegations, he admitted to 'mistakes in judgment' amid immense political pressure from party leaders.
Top Democrats including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Leader Hakeem Jeffries retracted their endorsements, leading to his suspension of the gubernatorial campaign.
The rapid collapse of Swalwell's political standing prompted investigations by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and the US Department of Justice into his conduct. His sudden departure splintered his voter base and set off a frenetic scramble among rivals like former Congresswoman Katie Porter.
Billionaire hedge fund founder Tom Steyer was the first to benefit from the scandal's fallout,Fox Newsreported. He ranked third in the ongoing count on Wednesday, with Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra fighting for the lead.
Steyer is betting big on the race, having spent over £148 million ($200 million) of his money on his campaign.
Steyer remained optimistic about his prospects on Wednesday evening, quoting President Franklin D. Roosevelt whilespeaking to supporters.
'California deserves better,' he asserted. 'Working people deserve better.' Addressing his spot in the race, he later asserted, 'We just have to be patient.'
Becerra also owed his lead in part to Swalwell's exit, according to the outlet. He's also primed for the position, having served California for 35 years from the State Assembly to the US Congress, also as a former California Attorney General and Secretary of Health and Human Services
Source: International Business Times UK
