In brief
Following allegations of sexual assault against Rep. Eric Swalwell, prominent backers including Sen. Adam Schiff and various labor unions have retracted their endorsements. Swalwell vehemently denies the accusations, asserting his innocence while calls for him to exit the gubernatorial race grow louder amidst a contentious election season.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In a shocking turn of events, Representative Eric Swalwell's run for California governor is facing severe backlash as major supporters have distanced themselves after he denied serious sexual assault allegations. The allegations, which he calls 'absolutely false', come at a crucial stage in the campaign for an election set for June 2, causing his once promising candidacy to falter.
Prominent Democrats and influential labor unions – critical players in California politics – have swiftly withdrawn their endorsements. Among them is fellow Congressman Adam Schiff, who expressed his distress over the situation, urging Swalwell to step down in light of the grave accusations.
Swalwell has acknowledged the gravity of the claims made against him, which involve two alleged incidents of assault: one dating back to 2019 and another supposedly occurring in 2024. He insists that both instances were consensual and has vowed to fight the accusations vehemently.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also weighed in, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation but has not publicly endorsed any candidate in the race. As the pressure mounts for Swalwell, he faces the grim prospect of continuing his campaign under a cloud of controversy, as other Democrats fear the evolving political landscape could jeopardize their chances in the upcoming elections.
While Swalwell remains defiant, asserting his innocence and attributing the allegations to attacks on his political ambition, the upcoming weeks will be pivotal for both his candidature and the unfolding Democratic gubernatorial primary.