SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A significant political shakeup has unfolded in California as Rep. Eric Swalwell, who was running for governor, faces serious allegations of sexual assault. These claims have led many of his prominent supporters to withdraw their backing, raising questions about his future in the race.
On Friday, Swalwell denied the allegations, stating, “These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They’re absolutely false. They did not happen, they have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.” Despite his denial, key endorsements from influential figures like U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and major labor unions quickly evaporated, with calls for Swalwell to exit the race growing louder.
California’s outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom, who is considering a presidential run in 2028, remarked that the allegations are “deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.” Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized the need for an investigation, suggesting that such matters should be handled outside of a gubernatorial campaign.
The allegations emerged at a critical moment in the race, with voters set to receive mail ballots next month in preparation for the June 2 election. According to reports from the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman has accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her in 2019 and again in 2024. The woman, who worked for Swalwell during the first alleged incident, stated that she felt too intoxicated to consent to sex during both encounters.
While the woman’s identity has not been disclosed, she expressed fears of not being believed, which prevented her from going to the police. The Associated Press has yet to independently verify her account.
Backlash from Democratic Leaders
The fallout from the allegations was swift. Schiff expressed his distress over the situation and called for Swalwell to end his gubernatorial bid. Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez, who played a role in Swalwell’s campaign, also announced he would be stepping back, emphasizing the need for accountability without distractions.
Major labor unions, such as the California Service Employees International Union and the California Teachers Association, have suspended their support, with the California Federation of Labor Unions pledging to act urgently regarding Swalwell’s candidacy.
Furthermore, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries underscored the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Pressure on Swalwell to Withdraw
As one of the leading candidates in the crowded field, Swalwell faced immediate pressure from his rivals to withdraw. The primary season has been tumultuous for California Democrats, with concerns that a crowded candidate list could jeopardize their chances in the November general election. The state’s top-two primary system allows the two candidates with the highest votes to advance, regardless of party affiliation.
Swalwell, who recently launched a series of campaign events, previously stated he had never been involved in a sexual relationship with a staff member or intern. However, he canceled a scheduled event shortly after the allegations surfaced. Unconfirmed rumors about Swalwell’s inappropriate behavior had circulated on social media before the Chronicle’s report, but this was the first direct accusation made public.
Swalwell, who has served in the House since 2012 and gained national attention as a House manager during Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial, suggested that the allegations may be part of a coordinated attack against him due to his campaign’s momentum. He is married and has three children.
As the political landscape in California shifts, the outcome of Swalwell’s campaign and the implications of the allegations remain to be seen, with voters awaiting more information and developments in the coming weeks.
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Blood reported from Los Angeles.
