Eric Swalwell Denies Sexual Assault Allegations as Support Crumbles in Governor Race
Congressman Eric Swalwell, a prominent Democratic contender for California's next governor, has vehemently denied allegations of sexual assault as calls for his withdrawal from the race intensify. The controversy erupted after multiple women came forward with accusations, leading to a swift erosion of support from former allies, rivals, and congressional colleagues.
Swalwell's Forceful Denial and Campaign Response
In a video statement shared on his Instagram and official congressional X account, Swalwell declared the allegations "flat false" and vowed to fight them with everything he has. "These allegations of sexual assault are absolutely false, they did not happen. They have never happened," he asserted. While acknowledging past mistakes in judgment, which he apologized for to his wife, Swalwell appeared to confirm his intention to remain in the race, stating he would spend the weekend with family and friends and update supporters soon.
His campaign has taken an aggressive stance, with lawyers sending cease-and-desist letters to two of the women, demanding retractions of their statements, which they labeled as false. The campaign did not respond to inquiries from other media outlets regarding the allegations.
Allegations from Multiple Sources
The San Francisco Chronicle published an account from a woman, a former employee of Swalwell, who alleged he sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions when she was too intoxicated to consent. The newspaper reviewed text messages related to the alleged 2024 assault and spoke to friends she had confided in. Additionally, CNN interviewed three other women who alleged sexual misconduct by the congressman. These reports follow social media posts suggesting a groundswell of women would come forward with accounts of inappropriate behavior.
At a recent town hall in Sacramento, Swalwell dismissed the online discourse as false and suggested it was timed to derail his campaign. He had emerged as a frontrunner in the crowded Democratic race, emphasizing affordability and working-class issues, and positioning himself as a fierce opponent of Donald Trump.
Political Fallout and Withdrawal of Support
The allegations have triggered a rapid political fallout. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called on Swalwell to leave the race, while California Senator Adam Schiff, a key endorser, rescinded his support and urged withdrawal. Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego, a personal friend who initially defended Swalwell, also pulled his endorsement, stating the accounts are indefensible and women deserve to be heard with respect.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized the need for an investigation with full transparency and accountability, suggesting it should occur outside the gubernatorial campaign. Three campaign employees, including former adviser Courtni Pugh, have exited Swalwell's team, according to Politico.
Reactions from Rivals and Party Figures
Democratic rivals in the race have condemned Swalwell's actions. Antonio Villaraigosa, former speaker of the California state assembly, criticized his attempt to silence victims as a shameful disgrace to democracy. Former Congresswoman Katie Porter expressed solidarity with the women, writing, "We believe you and we stand with you."
Governor Gavin Newsom described the allegations as deeply troubling and called for them to be taken seriously. On the Republican side, gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton, endorsed by Trump, suggested the scandal indicts the Democratic Party for prioritizing power over values like gender equality.
The controversy has cast a shadow over Swalwell's campaign, with the political landscape shifting dramatically as key figures distance themselves and pressure mounts for his exit from the race.
