SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In a stunning political reversal, prominent supporters of Rep. Eric Swalwell’s campaign for California governor withdrew their support Friday after the congressmember denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him.
Swalwell was among the leading Democrats in the race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom. But in just hours, he saw his most prominent supporters - including U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and powerful labor unions - drop their endorsements and called for his exit from the race.
This comes after the San Francisco Chronicle reported Friday that a woman accused Swalwell of sexual assault in 2019 and 2024. The newspaper reviewed text messages about the alleged 2024 assault and spoke to people whom she had confided in. She indicated she did not go to police due to fear of not being believed.
The woman worked for Swalwell in 2019 when the first alleged assault occurred, and the 2024 assault reportedly happened after a charity gala. She claimed she was too intoxicated to consent to sex in both instances.
Swalwell firmly denied the allegations, asserting they were part of a politically motivated attack against his campaign. “These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor,” Swalwell stated. “For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and congressman and have always protected women. I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.”
Swift backlash from prominent Democrats
On Friday afternoon, Schiff said in a social media post he’s “deeply distressed” by the allegations and called for Swalwell to end his gubernatorial bid. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi endorsed investigating the “serious allegations” outside of a gubernatorial campaign. Other Democratic representatives and union leaders echoed similar calls for Swalwell to withdraw.
The allegations surfaced at a critical stage of the wide-open campaign for California's governorship, with mail ballots going out to voters in less than a month before the June 2 primary election. Several of Swalwell’s competitors also urged him to exit the race.
The reported accusations represent a significant point of controversy as Swalwell, who is set against a backdrop of political uncertainty in the race, attempts to maintain momentum amid growing calls and mounting scrutiny.
