Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has confirmed he is facing a federal criminal investigation into alleged mortgage fraud, becoming the latest target in what he describes as Donald Trump's campaign of retribution against political opponents.
The Investigation Details
According to NBC News reports, the Federal Housing Finance Agency has referred Swalwell to the attorney general for potential investigation into mortgage and tax fraud allegations. The referral concerns several million dollars worth of loans and refinancing where Swalwell reportedly declared his primary residence as Washington.
The congressman confirmed the investigation on Thursday, stating he's unsurprised given his vocal criticism of the former president. "As the most vocal critic of Donald Trump over the last decade and as the only person who still has a surviving lawsuit against him, the only thing I am surprised about is that it took him this long to come after me," Swalwell said in an official statement.
Pattern of Political Targeting
This development marks the latest in a series of similar cases against Democratic officials that have emerged in recent months. Trump has pursued similar mortgage fraud allegations against several high-profile critics, including New York Attorney General Leticia James, Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, and Senator Adam Schiff.
All these cases share a common origin point - referrals from the Federal Housing Finance Agency. The pattern has raised concerns about the weaponization of federal agencies for political purposes.
In a revealing move, Trump publicly pressured Attorney General Pam Bondi on his Truth Social platform to bring charges against his political opponents, demonstrating the overt nature of this campaign.
Broader Context of Retribution
The investigation against Swalwell fits into a broader pattern of legal actions against Trump critics. Former FBI director James Comey faces indictment for allegedly making false statements and obstructing a congressional investigation during his 2020 testimony. Similarly, former national security adviser John Bolton has been charged with mishandling classified materials.
Swalwell responded to the investigation with defiance, drawing parallels with other targeted officials. "Like James Comey and John Bolton, Adam Schiff and Lisa Cook, Letitia James and the dozens more to come – I refuse to live in fear in what was once the freest country in the world," he stated.
The congressman concluded his statement by invoking Mark Twain: "Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it. Mr. President, do better. Be Better."
The case continues to develop as Swalwell joins the growing list of Democratic figures facing legal scrutiny amid what many observers are calling a politically motivated campaign against the former president's critics.
