Swalwell Rejects Misconduct Allegations in California Race

Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell , described as a leading candidate for California governor, rejected a series of sexual misconduct allegations that became public on Friday, including claims of sexual harassment and rape.

The allegations were reported by former staff members in The San Francisco Chronicle and CNN . After the reports surfaced, prominent California Democrats, including Senator Adam Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , called on Swalwell to withdraw from the gubernatorial contest.

The first account, published by The San Francisco Chronicle , came from a former staff member who said Swalwell made inappropriate comments soon after she was hired, asked her for sex, and sent sexual messages. She also said she woke up naked in his hotel room in September 2019 and reported signs of sexual trauma. The report said her account was supported by text messages and testimony from her former boyfriend.

Following that report, CNN published allegations from four additional women who also accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct. The combined reporting broadened the scope of the claims beyond the initial allegation and intensified scrutiny of Swalwell’s candidacy.

Swalwell denied the accusations and said he would respond with facts and pursue legal action. He also asserted the allegations were false and said he believed their timing was intended to affect the upcoming election.

Separately, Swalwell’s legal team reportedly sent cease-and-desist letters to two accusers on Thursday. The reports did not detail the contents of the letters beyond that characterization.

Swalwell has served as a prosecutor and as a congressman for nearly 20 years , according to the account. The allegations and the political reaction have placed his campaign under pressure, while the competing claims underscore that key facts remain disputed.