Price targets rivals, but not necessarily her opponent for DA
During candidate forum in Alameda, Pamela Price labeled Eric Swalwell "Republican-lite" and Ken Houston a "disgrace;" Supervisor Miley schools some high school kids
☕️MORNING BUZZ
Vol. VI, No. 1,228
—When Pamela Price addressed the City of Alameda Democratic Club last week seeking its endorsement in the June primary for district attorney, she struck an unusually restrained tone, briefly acknowledging a key misstep from her turbulent two years in office. (Read more about that in the Election 2026 section.)
That tone didn’t last. Price soon pivoted to criticism—though not of her successor, Ursula Jones Dickson. Instead, she took aim at two political rivals: Rep. Eric Swalwell and Oakland Councilmember Ken Houston.
During the 30-minute forum, Price never mentioned either by name, but her remarks clearly targeted Swalwell—who supported the recall effort against her—and Houston, a longtime rival whose clashes with Price have periodically spilled onto social media since his 2024 election.
Responding to a question about the death penalty, Price reiterated that she would not pursue such cases, noting that Gov. Gavin Newsom has imposed a statewide moratorium.
—She warned that the next governor could be a Republican, or “someone Republican-lite” and “does not believe and adhere to the platform of the Democratic Party or the values of this community.”
Price has repeatedly accused Swalwell of violating the state party’s platform by backing the recall, despite formal opposition from the Alameda County Democratic Party on two occasions. Price has also pointed to Swalwell’s 2022 endorsement of Republican Sheriff Greg Ahern as proof of his true leanings.
Later, Price broadened her criticism, referencing the November 2024 election—which included her recall—and calling out what she viewed as troubling outcomes. “We elected Donald Trump,” she said, before adding, “In my community we have elected a gentleman that has been a disgrace on the city council,” a clear reference to Houston, who represents East Oakland’s District 7.
The episode reflects a recurring challenge for Price in local Democratic politics. Although she was a contender for chair of the Alameda County Democratic Central Committee in 2021, she publicly criticized then-Assemblymember Rob Bonta ahead of the vote, alienating key allies. She ultimately lost the race by two votes.
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—More inside:
COUNTY NEWS: Proposed ban on fireworks in unincorporated areas includes possible fines for property owners.
Supervisor Miley called out some high school kids touting an anti-drug message and opposed extension of retail hours for dispensaries.
Plan to shore up Alameda Health System’s financial difficulties in the near-term is approved.
Alameda County DA reports a rise in misdemeanor and felony referrals since her appointment last year.
ELECTION 2026: DA candidates Jones Dickson, Price face-off at Dem club forum.
CAMPAIGN FINANCE: Form 497 large campaign contributions filed on March 25.
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