California Congressman Eric Swalwell, a Democratic candidate for governor, is facing serious sexual assault allegations from a former congressional staffer, which he categorically rejects as false and politically driven.
Multiple prominent Democratic officials are now calling on Swalwell to withdraw from the gubernatorial race in response to these accusations.
According to a Friday report in the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman who previously worked in Swalwell’s district office has alleged two incidents of nonconsensual sexual contact – one occurring in 2019 while she was still employed by him, and another in 2024 after leaving his staff.
The Chronicle reported that the unnamed woman stated she was too intoxicated during both incidents to provide consent.
In a subsequent CNN interview, the former staffer described the 2024 incident as rape, allegations that Swalwell vehemently disputes.
Speaking to CNN while her identity was concealed, the woman described her resistance: “I was pushing him off of me, saying no.” When asked about his response, she stated, “He didn’t stop.”
CNN’s reporting also revealed that three additional women have come forward with separate allegations of sexual misconduct against Swalwell, including claims of unwanted explicit messages and photos. Swalwell has rejected all of these accusations.
In his response to both news outlets, Swalwell stated: “These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor.”
He continued: “For nearly 20 years, I have served the public – as a prosecutor and a congressman – and have always protected women. I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action. My focus in the coming days is to be with my wife and children and defend our decades of service against these lies.”
Reuters was unable to reach a Swalwell spokesperson for additional comment.
The allegations have created significant upheaval in the campaign. Senator Adam Schiff, a nationally recognized Democrat, has rescinded his endorsement and called for Swalwell to exit the race. The California Teachers Association, the state’s largest educators’ union, has suspended its backing. House Democratic leadership, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, has stated that Swalwell should “immediately end his campaign.”
Among a crowded field of multi-party candidates, Swalwell had been viewed as a top contender to reach the runoff in California’s nonpartisan gubernatorial election. The two highest vote-getters in June’s primary will proceed to November’s general election, regardless of party affiliation.
