Rep. Eric Swalwell is facing serious allegations after a former staffer accused him of sexual assault, according to a report from the San Francisco Chronicle.
The accusation marks the first time a specific individual has publicly come forward after days of rumors circulating online about alleged misconduct and nondisclosure agreements tied to Swalwell’s office.
According to the report, the former staffer claims two separate incidents occurred — one in September 2019 and another in April 2024 — during which she says she was unable to give consent due to intoxication. The allegations also include claims that Swalwell sent explicit images.
Swalwell has strongly denied the accusations, calling them false and politically motivated.
“These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor,” he said, emphasizing his record as a prosecutor and longtime public official. He added that he plans to defend himself and take legal action if necessary.
The report also states that the accuser received a cease-and-desist letter from Swalwell’s attorneys prior to going public, adding another layer of tension to the unfolding situation.
The allegations arrive at a critical moment, as Swalwell is widely considered a leading Democratic contender in California’s upcoming gubernatorial race. The controversy has already begun to spill into the political arena, with rivals weighing in.
Former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa criticized Swalwell after he canceled a scheduled town hall event, saying the congressman was avoiding voters and media scrutiny. Swalwell’s campaign said the cancellation was due to illness.
As of now, no criminal charges have been announced, and the claims remain allegations. The situation is likely to draw further attention in the coming days as more details emerge and as Swalwell’s campaign responds to mounting pressure.
The case underscores how quickly personal allegations can intersect with high-stakes political races, especially when they surface during a competitive election cycle.
The post Eric Swalwell Hit With Sexual Assault Allegations As Campaign Faces New Scrutiny appeared first on Real News Now.
