SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California gubernatorial candidate Rep. Eric Swalwell is facing significant political turbulence following serious allegations of sexual assault. The controversy erupted as key supporters, including U.S. Senator Adam Schiff and various labor unions, publicly withdrew their endorsements, calling for Swalwell's exit from the race.
The allegations, first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, describe incidents from 2019 and 2024 where a woman claims she was assaulted by Swalwell when she was intoxicated. The woman indicated she did not report the incidents to the police due to fears of disbelief.
In a statement, Swalwell denied the claims, describing them as false and suggesting they arise from his campaign's momentum. He emphasized his dedication to public service over the past 20 years as a prosecutor and congressman, promising to defend himself legally.
The swift backlash from Democratic leaders has raised alarms as the June primary approaches, endangering Swalwell's campaign. He has cancelled several campaign events, including one in Palm Springs, as growing pressure from rivals and the public mounts for him to step down to allow for full accountability.
Swalwell's candidacy was already under scrutiny in a competitive landscape filled with multiple Democratic contenders eager to fill the vacancy left by outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom. Major unions, like the California Service Employees International Union, have suspended their support, further complicating his path forward.
As the situation develops, Democratic leaders continue to stress the importance of a thorough investigation into the allegations, insisting that it should occur outside the context of the election cycle.
In the meantime, Swalwell's campaign future remains uncertain as he grapples with the implications of these accusations and their repercussions on his political ambitions.
