WASHINGTON – In a shocking turn of events, fellow Democrats are distancing themselves from Congressman Eric Swalwell’s campaign for California governor after serious allegations of sexual assault emerged. These claims have led to increasing pressure on Swalwell to not only withdraw from the gubernatorial race but also consider resigning from his congressional seat.
Swalwell, who has positioned himself as a leading contender to succeed outgoing Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that they are “absolutely false.” The claims surfaced at a critical juncture for his campaign, which was already facing scrutiny.
As the weekend unfolded, a number of Democrats in Congress began to publicly call for Swalwell’s resignation. Some members even suggested they would support expulsion from the House if he opted to remain in his position. Notable California representatives including Jared Huffman, Ro Khanna, and Sam Liccardo have all voiced their support for Swalwell stepping down, as have Reps. Teresa Leger Fernández from New Mexico and Pramila Jayapal from Washington state.
Rep. Jayapal emphasized the non-partisan nature of this issue, asserting, “This cuts across party lines. And it is depravity of the way that women have been treated.” Such statements signal a significant shift in the party’s stance on accountability and the treatment of allegations of misconduct.
The mounting political pressure has already caused Swalwell to lose prominent endorsements, including those from influential figures like Senator Adam Schiff and powerful labor unions. Rep. Jimmy Gomez, who had played a pivotal role in Swalwell’s campaign, also announced he was stepping away from his involvement.
As Congress reconvenes, the question of Swalwell’s potential expulsion could be addressed swiftly. Representative Anna Paulina Luna from Florida has indicated her intention to file a motion to initiate the expulsion process. Historically, votes for expulsion in the House are rare, requiring a two-thirds majority to pass. The case of Republican George Santos, expelled in 2023 for conduct issues, illustrates that such actions can occur.
Representatives Huffman, Jayapal, and Leger Fernández have stated they would support the expulsion of Swalwell while also advocating for action against Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, who admitted to an affair with a staff member who later died by suicide. This aligns with a broader call for accountability across party lines.
Republican Rep. Byron Donalds echoed the sentiment, suggesting that both Swalwell and Gonzales “need to go home.” His comments reflect a growing bipartisan concern regarding the behavior of elected officials.
The allegations against Swalwell, reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, involve claims of sexual assault against a former staffer in both 2019 and 2024. The woman, who has not been publicly identified, stated that she did not report the incidents to the police due to fears of not being believed. She claims that both incidents involved her being too intoxicated to provide consent.
The 2024 incident reportedly took place in New York, and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is currently investigating the case, urging any witnesses to come forward.
Following the emergence of these allegations, Swalwell announced via social media that he would be taking time to be with family and friends, promising an update “very soon.” Notably, he has already chosen not to pursue reelection for his House seat.
Swalwell has categorically denied the claims, 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.”
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a significant figure in California politics, has called for a thorough investigation into the allegations, suggesting it should occur outside the context of the gubernatorial campaign. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has also joined the call for an investigation and urged Swalwell to withdraw from the governor’s race.
The unfolding situation highlights the critical importance of accountability and the necessity for thorough investigations into allegations of misconduct, especially in positions of public trust. As this story develops, the implications for Swalwell’s political future and the broader Democratic Party remain to be seen.
