Representative Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor is facing significant turmoil due to sexual assault and misconduct allegations from four women. The claims, which include accounts from former staff members and social media personalities, have prompted leading Democrats to urge Swalwell to withdraw from the race with the election just weeks away.
The most serious accusation comes from a former staffer who alleges that Swalwell sexually assaulted her while she was under the influence of alcohol in 2024. She claims to have sustained injuries during the alleged assault and subsequently underwent medical examinations for potential pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Another former staffer detailed to the San Francisco Chronicle a pattern of alleged harassment that began shortly after her graduation. She reported that Swalwell sent her explicit images and requested nude photographs, which she complied with out of fear of repercussions. This staffer also claimed that Swalwell attempted to kiss her without consent on separate occasions and exposed himself to her while they were in a vehicle.
Social media influencer Ally Sammarco and a professional in the marketing industry have also shared their experiences. Sammarco stated that after engaging in political discussions on X, formerly Twitter, in 2021, Swalwell moved their communication to Snapchat, where he allegedly shared unsolicited explicit images and videos of his genitalia. The marketing professional reported similar unsolicited graphic videos and inappropriate comments from Swalwell on her private Instagram photos.
These revelations have reignited discussion about Swalwell's past reputation as the "Snapchat King of Congress," a nickname he gained for his early and extensive use of the ephemeral messaging application.
The political fallout was immediate. On Friday, April 11, prominent Democratic figures including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar released statements demanding Swalwell's immediate departure from the gubernatorial race. Pelosi also called for a thorough investigation into the "incredibly disturbing" allegations.
Major institutional allies have withdrawn their support. The California Teachers Association and the SEIU, influential organizations in state politics, have rescinded their endorsements and asked Swalwell to step down. Reports indicate that several members of Swalwell's own staff have resigned following the public disclosure of these accusations.
Representative Swalwell has vehemently denied all allegations, dismissing them as a politically motivated smear campaign strategically timed before the election. In a public statement, he highlighted his extensive career as a prosecutor and congressman and asserted his intention to defend himself and his family against what he termed "lies."
His legal team, headed by attorney Elias Dabaie, has reportedly issued cease- and-desist letters to at least two of the accusers, threatening defamation lawsuits. Swalwell indicated that his immediate focus would be on his family while he prepares his legal defense.
The accusations have significantly disrupted Swalwell's campaign momentum as a leading contender for governor, casting considerable uncertainty over his political future as the California primary election nears.
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