California Rep Eric Swalwell Suspends Governor Campaign Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Swalwell suspended his campaign amid sexual assault allegations from a former staffer and at least three other women.

He wrote, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past.

ABC News

The San Francisco Chronicle published the account of a woman who alleges Swalwell began pursuing her, sent a nude photo, and sexually assaulted her twice when she was too intoxicated to consent.

At least four other women detailed allegations ranging from sexual assault to inappropriate conduct.

The Manhattan DA opened a criminal investigation into an allegation from 2024.

Fellow Democrats called the allegations sick and disgusting and demanded Swalwell resign.

The main accuser was hired at age 21 to work in Swalwell's district office.

She alleges he began pursuing her, sent a nude photo, and in 2019 she woke up naked in his hotel bed.

Al Jazeera

Five years later, Swalwell allegedly forced himself on her at a gala.

The Chronicle spoke with her friend and ex-boyfriend who corroborated her story.

Medical records show she sought pregnancy and STD tests about a week after the incident.

She did not immediately tell authorities because she feared she would not be believed.

Swalwell's campaign imploded as top supporters and labor unions withdrew endorsements.

“Eric Swalwell quits California governor race amid sexual misconduct claims US Congressman Eric Swalwell has dropped out of the California governor race following growing pressure over sexual misconduct allegations”

BBC

Rep. Jimmy Gomez and Adam Gray resigned as co-chairs.

Senator Adam Schiff rescinded his endorsement, as did Senator Alex Padilla.

More than 50 former staff members called on Swalwell to drop out and resign from Congress.

The collapse energized the Republican Party, which has not won a statewide election since 2006.

The top-two primary system raises the possibility of two Republicans in the general election.

With Swalwell out, the Democratic field is wide open.

Xavier Becerra called it a new day in the governor's race.

CalMatters

Billionaire Tom Steyer has spent at least $110 million on advertising.

Progressive former Rep. Katie Porter and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa also remain.

Polls showed Swalwell edging ahead of Democratic rivals.

The sudden vacancy jolts a race that had left Democrats fretting over two Republicans advancing.