DOJ Opens Investigation into Former Rep. Swalwell Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Multiple women have accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, leading to criminal probes and his resignation from Congress.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:20pm

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A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty government office or legislative chamber, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows cast across the room, creating a contemplative and melancholic mood.The DOJ investigation into former Rep. Swalwell casts a somber shadow over the political landscape.Dublin Today

The Department of Justice has launched an investigation into former California Rep. Eric Swalwell following multiple allegations of sexual assault and harassment made by five different women over the past several years. Swalwell has denied the accusations but has admitted to making mistakes in judgment. He has since suspended his campaign for California governor and resigned from his congressional seat.

Why it matters

The DOJ probe adds to the growing legal troubles for Swalwell, who is facing separate criminal investigations by district attorneys in Los Angeles and New York related to the sexual assault allegations. The scandal has derailed Swalwell's political career, with the former congressman resigning from Congress to focus on fighting the "serious, false allegations" against him.

The details

According to the reports, the DOJ investigation was launched within the last few weeks, after the initial allegations surfaced. The accusations include that Swalwell allegedly drugged and raped one woman, as well as sexually assaulted one of his own staffers. Swalwell has denied all the allegations but acknowledged making "mistakes in judgment" in the past.

  • The DOJ investigation was launched within the last few weeks.
  • The initial allegations against Swalwell surfaced in the last few weeks.
  • Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress on April 16, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A former Democratic congressman from California who has been accused of multiple sexual assault and harassment incidents. Swalwell has denied the allegations but resigned from Congress to fight the "serious, false accusations" against him.

Department of Justice (DOJ)

The federal law enforcement agency that has opened an investigation into the sexual assault allegations against former Rep. Eric Swalwell.

Los Angeles District Attorney

The local prosecutor's office that has launched its own criminal investigation into the allegations against Swalwell.

New York District Attorney

The local prosecutor's office that has also launched a criminal investigation into the allegations against Swalwell.

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What they’re saying

“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I've made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegations made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.”

— Eric Swalwell, Former Congressman

“This false, outrageous rumor is being spread 27 days before an election begins by flailing opponents who have sadly teamed up with MAGA conspiracy theorists because they know Eric Swalwell is the frontrunner in this race.”

— Micah Beasley, Spokesperson for Eric Swalwell

What’s next

The judge overseeing the DOJ investigation will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges against Swalwell. The local district attorney investigations in Los Angeles and New York will also continue, with potential for additional charges.

The takeaway

The high-profile allegations and multiple investigations into former Rep. Eric Swalwell highlight the growing scrutiny and consequences that public officials can face over claims of sexual misconduct, even after leaving office. The scandal has derailed Swalwell's political ambitions, underscoring the serious nature of the accusations and the need for thorough due process.