On Sunday, April 12, Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell announced the suspension of his campaign for governor of California. This decision came after a former aide accused him of sexual assault, throwing a wrench into the already tumultuous California gubernatorial race.
Swalwell took to the social media platform X to issue a statement expressing apologies to his family, staff, and supporters. “I have decided to suspend my campaign for governor,” Swalwell wrote. “I deeply apologize for the mistakes I have made in the past to my family, staff, friends, and supporters. I will defend myself against those serious false accusations — but this is my personal fight, not part of the campaign.”
The political storm surrounding Swalwell stems from multiple allegations. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office confirmed an investigation into a sexual assault accusation that occurred in April 2024 in New York City.
Additionally, the San Francisco Chronicle revealed statements from his former aide alleging that Swalwell sexually assaulted her twice between 2019 and 2021 while she was intoxicated and unable to consent. The report highlighted that these claims were supported by text messages from that time, testimony from her boyfriend, and medical records.
Subsequently, CNN reported four more women accusing him of inappropriate behavior, including allegations of sending unsolicited explicit photos.
This incident has caused a significant uproar within the Democratic Party. A group composed of 55 former Swalwell staffers released a joint statement urging him not only to withdraw from the gubernatorial race but also to resign from his position as a congressman, emphasizing that “no one is above the law.”
The open letter stated, “We stand unequivocally with our colleague who has shown extraordinary courage by coming forward with the truth. We believe her.”
California Democratic Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi has been a close ally of Swalwell. However, in a statement last Friday, she noted that these accusations “must be respected and heard.”
“This extremely sensitive issue must be thoroughly investigated in a transparent and accountable manner,” the former Speaker of the House stated. “As discussed with Congressman Swalwell, it is clear that this investigation should take place outside of the gubernatorial race.”
Swalwell had been consistently leading in polls for the California gubernatorial primary among Democratic candidates. With his exit from the race, the competitive landscape will see a reshuffling.
Currently, Swalwell has only announced the suspension of his campaign for governor and has not declared his resignation from his congressional seat. However, he faces pressure from both parties to step down.
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has publicly called for Swalwell’s resignation and urged law enforcement to conduct an investigation.
Republican Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna plans to initiate a vote for Swalwell’s impeachment after Congress reconvenes this week, but this would require a two-thirds majority vote to pass.