Another woman has alleged that Eric Swalwell raped her, adding to a growing list of misconduct allegations against the former Democratic lawmaker.
Speaking on Tuesday, Lonna Drewes said she had been reluctant to come forward with her allegations that Swalwell drugged and raped her in a hotel room in 2018 because of his political power.
Swalwell has resigned from Congress and withdrawn from California governor's race since accusations against him were reported on Friday. He denies each and every sexual misconduct allegation against him.
These accusations are false, fabricated, and deeply offensive - a calculated and transparent political hit job, his attorney Sara Azari said.
During a news conference, Drewes described how she met Swalwell while working as a model in Beverly Hills and thought of him as a friend. She alleged that during their third meeting, Swalwell choked and raped her. She stated, While he was choking me I lost consciousness and I thought I died. I did not consent to any sexual activity. Drewes has not undergone a sexual assault exam but told friends about the incident at the time.
Following Drewes, three other women have come forward with allegations, leading her attorney, Lisa Bloom, to prepare a police report on the alleged assault.
This series of allegations has prompted not only the resignation of Swalwell but also a congressional ethics inquiry. Critics, including fellow lawmakers and the public, are now calling for accountability in response to the chaos surrounding these charges.
As Swalwell battles to maintain his innocence, the situation continues to unfold, with further investigations being carried out regarding other allegations against him.
