Ask Onix
Swalwell rejects misconduct claims amid growing pressure to quit race
California Congressman Eric Swalwell has firmly denied allegations of sexual misconduct from former staff members, calling them false and politically timed. The accusations surfaced just weeks before the state's gubernatorial primary, prompting key Democratic allies to withdraw support.
Allegations surface in media reports
The first accusation appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle on Friday. A former staffer, whose identity remains undisclosed, alleged Swalwell made inappropriate advances shortly after hiring her in 2019, including sending sexual messages and soliciting sex. She described waking up naked in his hotel room with no memory of the previous night.
In 2024, she met Swalwell at a gala and later reported waking up with signs of sexual trauma, though she recalled little of the encounter. Her account was supported by text messages to friends at the time and statements from her former boyfriend, who said he urged her to report the incident to police.
Later that day, CNN published allegations from four additional women who had worked for Swalwell, all accusing him of sexual misconduct. His legal team had reportedly sent cease-and-desist letters to two accusers the day before the reports were published.
Swalwell responds with denial and legal threats
In a written statement, Swalwell called the allegations false and suggested they were timed to damage his campaign. "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, take legal action," he said.
In a video posted on Facebook, he acknowledged past mistakes but denied the allegations. "I am not perfect or a saint. I've made errors in judgment, but those are between me and my wife. To her, I apologize deeply for putting her in this position."
Allies and endorsers withdraw support
Within hours of the allegations, prominent Democrats, including Senator Adam Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, urged Swalwell to exit the governor's race. Pelosi stated that the matter "must be appropriately investigated with full transparency and accountability" and suggested it was best handled outside the campaign.
Swalwell also lost endorsements from key labor groups, including the California Teachers Association. Outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom called the allegations "deeply troubling" and stressed the need for a serious response.
Race enters critical phase as ballots loom
The accusations come as California's gubernatorial primary enters its final stretch, with mail ballots set to be distributed ahead of the 2 June vote. Swalwell had been considered a leading contender in a crowded Democratic field, though recent polls showed two Republicans near the top due to the party's divided base.
The state's non-partisan primary advances the top two vote-getters to the 3 November general election, regardless of party affiliation or majority support.
