Wahab wins special election to Swalwell's California district

Democratic state Sen. Aisha Wahab has won the California 14th District special election runoff to finish former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s term, prevailing in a tighter contest than the initial primary suggested amid heavy outside spending. The race highlighted a battle within the Democratic Party over U.S. policy toward Israel, with pro-Israel super PACs spending millions to boost opponent Melissa Hernandez, while Wahab has criticized Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide. Wahab led decisively in early rounds but the influx of outside cash narrowed the gap, and multiple outlets note the results set the stage for a November runoff for the full two-year term as well. Swalwell’s resignation in April over sexual misconduct allegations framed the race as a key test of electability and district alignment on national policy questions. Voters will also choose again in November for the full term, with the same candidates expected on the ballot, and further results will continue to be reported by local and national outlets.