SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In a stunning political reversal, prominent supporters of Rep. Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor withdrew their support Friday after the congressman denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him.
Swalwell did not heed calls to step down, opting instead to spend the weekend with family while vowing to fight the accusations, asserting, These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They’re absolutely false. They did not happen, they have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.
The fallout from the allegations was swift, with several key supporters, including U.S. Senator Adam Schiff and influential labor unions, retracting their endorsements and urging Swalwell to exit the race.
California’s outgoing governor, Gavin Newsom, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, stating, As we continue to learn more, these allegations from multiple sources are deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.
Pelosi, who has yet to endorse any candidate, also expressed a need for a thorough investigation, suggesting it be conducted outside the race. This controversy comes at a critical juncture in an already crowded gubernatorial race, with mail ballots expected to be sent next month.
As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman accused Swalwell of two instances of sexual assault occurring in 2019 and 2024. Amidst her decision not to go to the police for fear of disbelief, text messages related to the allegations have been reviewed, raising concerns about Swalwell's conduct towards female staffers.
Prominent Democrats quickly responded to the allegations, with representative Jimmy Gomez calling for Swalwell to end his campaign, emphasizing the need for accountability free of distraction. This growing demand for withdrawal puts further pressure on Swalwell, whose campaign was seen to be gaining momentum before these allegations surfaced.
Swalwell, elected in 2012, has been involved in various prominent political efforts including the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump. Faced with challenges both in public and private, the future of his gubernatorial campaign hangs in the balance as the state prepares for crucial elections.
