Swalwell Accusers Speak Out Weeks Before Primary

Survivors of sexual assault often face intense scrutiny when coming forward, even years later.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:26pm

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A moody, cinematic painting of a solitary figure standing alone in a dimly lit political office, the warm glow of a setting sun casting long shadows across the room, conveying the heavy emotional weight and isolation often felt by survivors of sexual assault who come forward.The haunting silence of an empty political office reflects the heavy burden carried by survivors who choose to speak out against powerful abusers.Beverly Hills Today

In the weeks leading up to the California gubernatorial primary, several women have come forward with accusations of sexual assault against Democratic candidate Eric Swalwell. The article explores why survivors often wait years to report their abuse, facing skepticism and victim-blaming when they do. It highlights the difficult decision survivors face in speaking out against powerful men, and the secondary trauma they endure from the public response.

Why it matters

This story sheds light on the complex reasons why survivors of sexual assault often delay reporting their abuse, even against high-profile public figures. It underscores the societal tendency to question the motives of accusers rather than examining the actions of the accused, which can deter survivors from coming forward and allow predators to continue harming others.

The details

Several women, including model Lonna Drewes, have accused Swalwell of sexual assault, with Drewes alleging he drugged and raped her in 2018. The article explores how survivors often face intense scrutiny and skepticism when they do decide to report their abuse, with questions like 'Why now?' being a common response that can re-traumatize them. It highlights how powerful men like Swalwell can leverage their status and resources to silence and discredit their accusers.

  • The accusations against Swalwell surfaced in the weeks leading up to the California gubernatorial primary election.
  • Drewes said she 'did not want to live anymore' and 'cried all the time for years' after the alleged 2018 assault.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic candidate for California governor who has been accused of sexual assault by several women.

Lonna Drewes

A Beverly Hills model who has accused Swalwell of drugging and raping her in 2018.

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What they’re saying

“I did not want to live anymore. I cried all the time for years.”

— Lonna Drewes, Alleged Victim

“He thought he was untouchable. He acted with total impunity. He never thought that the consequences of his actions would follow him.”

— Ally Sammarco, Alleged Victim

What’s next

The accusations against Swalwell are still under investigation, and it remains to be seen how they will impact his campaign for California governor.

The takeaway

This story highlights the immense courage and resilience of sexual assault survivors who come forward, often years after their trauma, to hold their abusers accountable. It also underscores the need for greater societal understanding and support for survivors, rather than the harmful victim-blaming that too often occurs.