Swalwell Halts Governor Campaign After Assault Allegations

Eric Swalwell suspended his California gubernatorial campaign after a former staffer accused him of sexual assault, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, prompting widespread calls from fellow Democrats for his withdrawal and even resignation from Congress. The San Francisco Chronicle published the woman's account, which Swalwell vehemently denies, calling the allegations "flat false" in a video posted to social media.

Top House Democrats, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, issued a joint statement urging Swalwell to end his campaign and called for a swift investigation. Several prominent Democrats, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Rep.

Ro Khanna, Rep. Eugene Vindman, and campaign chair Rep.

Jimmy Gomez, have also called for his resignation or withdrawal, with Gomez stepping down from the campaign. Republican Rep.

Anna Paulina Luna announced plans to force a House vote next week to expel Swalwell if he does not resign. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is investigating the allegations, urging survivors to contact their Special Victims Division at 212-335-9373.

Swalwell stated he would fight the allegations legally and denied any staffer ever signed an NDA or lodged an ethics complaint in his 13 years of service. Other gubernatorial opponents, including San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, and former State Controller Betty Yee, also called for his withdrawal.