Eric Swalwell, CA Governor's Race, and Bearing Rotten Fruit

In this episode of *Politics by Faith*, host Mike Slater examines the political downfall of California Congressman Eric Swalwell, who is running for governor in an open primary system that favors Democrats. Slater argues that Swalwell’s recent allegations—ranging from sexual misconduct to immigration and campaign finance violations—were strategically amplified by the Democratic establishment not out of moral outrage, but because he posed a threat to their party’s dominance in the race. With multiple Democratic candidates splitting the vote, the party leadership orchestrated a 'Me Too'-style backlash to eliminate Swalwell and consolidate support for more viable candidates. Slater draws a powerful parallel to the biblical story of Aaron’s staff, which miraculously blossomed with buds, blossoms, and ripe almonds—symbolizing the fullness of spiritual fruit. He uses this to contrast the life-giving fruit of integrity with the rotten fruit of hypocrisy, warning that no matter how powerful or protected someone may be, their hidden sins will eventually bear fruit. The episode concludes with a call to live with spiritual freshness, beauty, and lasting fruit through Christ.