Rep Eric Swalwell Faces Criminal Investigation Over Sexual Assault Allegations
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Rep Eric Swalwell Faces Criminal Investigation Over Sexual Assault Allegations

11 April, 2026.USA.43 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Manhattan DA opened an investigation into Swalwell over sexual assault allegations by a former staffer.
  • Swalwell denies the accusations, calling them flat-out false and vowing to fight.
  • Democrats and allies urge Swalwell to withdraw from California gubernatorial race.

Swalwell Assault Allegations

Rep. Eric Swalwell faced explosive sexual misconduct allegations from four women, including a former staffer who accused him of raping her while she was heavily intoxicated.

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office opened a criminal investigation into the former staffer's allegations.

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ABC7 Los AngelesABC7 Los Angeles

Swalwell denied the accusations, calling them flat false and claiming they were politically motivated.

Prominent Democrats including Sen. Adam Schiff and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi withdrew their support.

Detailed Staffer Account

The former staffer described how Swalwell pursued her after she was hired at age 21.

She described multiple incidents of nonconsensual sexual contact, including waking up naked in a hotel room after a night of heavy drinking.

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Al-Biyadir as-SiyasiAl-Biyadir as-Siyasi

Five years later, she said Swalwell sexually assaulted her again at a charity gala.

She texted a friend that she was sexually assaulted by Eric.

Swalwell's attorney sent her a cease-and-desist letter.

Campaign Implodes

Swalwell's campaign co-chairs withdrew their endorsements.

The California Teachers Association and SEIU California also pulled support.

Swalwell initially vowed to fight the allegations and remain in the race.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna filed a motion to expel Swalwell from Congress.

The scandal dominated headlines less than a month before the June 2 primary.

Broader Political Impact

CBS News reported on connections between the influencer and rival candidate Katie Porter.

The California Democratic Party called the allegations deeply disturbing.

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BBCBBC

Prediction markets saw a surge in backing for Tom Steyer.

The situation became one of the most significant controversies facing a national Democratic figure in 2026.

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