Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell announced Sunday that he is suspending his campaign for governor of California following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision comes as scrutiny intensified and investigations were launched into claims made by several women, including a former staff member.
Swalwell was hoping to succeed current California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited. However, his campaign rapidly lost momentum after the allegations became public, prompting calls from within his own party to step aside.
In a statement posted to X (formerly known as Twitter), Swalwell said he would suspend his campaign and expressed regret for what he described as past “mistakes in judgment.” At the same time, he challenged the accusations, vowing to contest what he called “serious, false allegations,” but emphasized that doing so should not involve his campaign apparatus.
One of the most serious allegations is currently under investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. The case stems from an incident following a 2024 charity event involving a former staffer, who alleged that she had been intoxicated and unable to consent. According to her account to CNN, she awoke to find Swalwell engaging in sexual activity with her.
A separate allegation, reportedly under investigation by the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, involves an incident from 2019. The same staffer claims she awoke naked in a hotel room next to Swalwell while working in his district office.
In addition, Democratic social media influencer Ally Sammarco accused Swalwell of sending unsolicited explicit images and messages. She told CNN that his communications became increasingly inappropriate, including remarks about her appearance and suggestions of a sexual relationship.
Following the allegations, some Democratic leaders and operatives publicly urged Swalwell to end his gubernatorial bid. This episode is not the first time Swalwell has faced controversy related to alleged personal relationships. In 2023, he was removed from the House Intelligence Committee by then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy over concerns tied to his past association with Christine Fang, who was reported to have connections to China’s Ministry of State Security. Swalwell has denied wrongdoing in that matter.
As investigations continue, the political and legal implications for Swalwell remain uncertain. His withdrawal from the governor’s race marks a significant shift in California’s upcoming election landscape, where he had become the Democratic frontrunner.
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One big creep down and so many more to follow very soon!