Dublin City announced his bid for U.S. Congress in California's new 15th Congressional District on Wednesday.
Voters from Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Hayward, Union City, Castro Valley, Fremont and unincorporated Alameda County will become a part of the new 15th District and can cast their vote in the 2012 election.
Swalwell, a Democrat, will seek to upset longtime incumbent Rep. Pete Stark, who currently represents the 13th District, in the new district.
"I know this district well. I know its potential. It is home to talented entrepreneurs, growing families, engaged citizens and decent, hardworking folks," said Swalwell, speaking outside a business complex in front of about 50 supporters.
"But like much of our country, we've faced real challenges these past few years. To reach its potential, this new district needs new energy and new ideas. I have that energy, I have those ideas, and I want to put them to work for you."
Swalwell was raised in Dublin and graduated from . Since 2006, he has served as a prosecutor for the Alameda County District Attorney's Office.
In 2006, he was appointed to the city of Dublin's . From 2008 to 2010, Swalwell served on the Dublin Planning Commission.
Swalwell was elected to the Dublin City Council in November 2010.
In Wednesday's announcement, he acknowledged he's not a career politician.
"I freely admit that I don't have a lot of experience in Washington, D.C. Some people consider that a weakness, but I think it's my greatest strength," he said.
Stark, a senior member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, has been in office since 1973.
"If you like the way things have been going in Washington, I'm not your man," Swalwell said. "But if you want to see things changed, whatever your background, then I think we can work together."
Swalwell said his agenda includes "creating new jobs, new opportunities and new prosperity for the district."
Members of the Dublin community, including Dublin Mayor Tim Sbranti, fellow council members, teachers and others, stood behind Swalwell during his announcement to show their support.
"I am running as a Democrat, a proud one. But a Democrat who can work with anyone, from any party, who has good ideas to solve our problems," said Swalwell.
He concluded by making a promise to the audience.
"I will work for you. I will listen to you. I will stand up for you. I will never take you for granted. And if you give me the honor of serving as your next congressman, I will use all the energy and ideas that I have to make this district the best it can possibly be."
For more information on Eric Swalwell's campaign for Congress, visit www.swalwellforcongress.com.
For Dublin election coverage, visit www.dublin.patch.com/elections-2.
