The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has initiated an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Congressman Eric Swalwell. Four women have come forward, accusing him of misconduct ranging from sexual harassment to rape, with one alleged incident reported to have occurred in New York.
Swalwell, a prominent candidate in the California governor race, has publicly denied these accusations and stated his commitment to defending himself with facts. He urged any potential survivors or witnesses to reach out to his office as the investigation unfolds.
Representatives for Swalwell did not respond immediately to requests for comments regarding the allegations. The DA’s office is encouraging any accuser to come forward, emphasizing their trained personnel is prepared to handle such sensitive matters with care and professionalism.
Just a day prior to the investigation's announcement, Swalwell described the claims as false and stressed his long history of public service protecting women. He expressed intentions to take legal action where necessary as part of his defense.
The allegations surfaced following a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, where a former staff member detailed instances of inappropriate behavior from Swalwell, including unwanted sexual advances and messages. Specifically, she claimed that the first alleged assault occurred following a night of drinking in September 2019, with a second detailing an encounter after a charity gala in 2024, where she asserted she lacked the ability to consent due to intoxication.
These developments may have far-reaching implications for Swalwell's campaign, as he had previously received support from influential figures within the Democratic Party, including Senator Adam Schiff and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Following the allegations, their support has reportedly waned. California’s outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have expressed concern over the situation, urging that the investigation occurs separate from the campaign.
With California's primaries fast approaching, Swalwell’s position in the race has become precarious amidst the scrutiny from both the media and his political peers. The implications of this scandal may extend beyond his campaign, affecting the broader Democratic primary as they navigate a crowded and competitive field.
