Eric Swalwell Suspends California Governor Campaign Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, a leading contender in the competitive race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, has abruptly suspended his campaign. This decision follows a series of sexual assault and misconduct allegations from a former staff member and at least three other women, which have rocked the political landscape.
Allegations and Immediate Fallout
According to a report by the San Francisco Chronicle published on Friday, a woman who previously worked for Swalwell accused him of sexually assaulting her twice when she was too intoxicated to consent. Additionally, CNN reported that three other women have come forward, alleging that Swalwell sent them unsolicited nude photographs or explicit messages.
In an online statement, Swalwell, 45, expressed his intent to "fight the serious, false allegations that have been made – but that’s my fight, not a campaign’s." He added, "To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past." Since the allegations surfaced, Swalwell has vehemently denied them, calling them "flat false" in a video statement and suggesting they are part of a coordinated effort to undermine his gubernatorial bid.
Political Repercussions and Investigations
The allegations have triggered swift and severe political consequences. Prominent figures, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a key ally in California politics, urged Swalwell to withdraw from the race. His campaign co-chairs, Congressmen Jimmy Gomez and Adam Gray, resigned, while supporters like California Senator Adam Schiff and Senator Alex Padilla rescinded their endorsements.
In a personal rebuke, Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego withdrew his endorsement, expressing regret for defending Swalwell before knowing all the details. The fallout intensified over the weekend, with the Manhattan District Attorney’s office announcing a criminal investigation into a sexual assault allegation from 2024 in New York. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security launched an inquiry into allegations that Swalwell hired a Brazilian national as a nanny without proper work authorization, based on a complaint filed by filmmaker Joel Gilbert.
Impact on the Governor Race and Broader Implications
Swalwell’s sudden exit has significantly disrupted the race to replace Governor Newsom, leaving California Democrats concerned about the possibility of two Republicans advancing to the general election under the state’s unique primary system. Recent polls showed Swalwell gaining traction, edging ahead of Democratic rivals and closing in on Republican candidates like Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco.
Other Democratic candidates, including billionaire Tom Steyer, former Congresswoman Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, have responded to Swalwell’s suspension by commending the accusers and calling for accountability. Villaraigosa stated that suspending the campaign was "not sufficient," demanding Swalwell resign from Congress and fully withdraw from the race.
Meanwhile, members of Congress from both parties have indicated they may vote to expel Swalwell, along with Republican Representative Tony Gonzales, who faces similar misconduct accusations. Swalwell, known for his opposition to Donald Trump and role in Trump’s second impeachment trial, now faces a tumultuous political future as investigations unfold and public pressure mounts.
