Swalwell Faces Mounting Pressure to End Campaign, Resign from Congress Amid Assault Allegations

The Bay Area congressman is under criminal investigation and has lost support from Democratic allies.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:38am

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A moody, cinematic painting of a solitary figure sitting alone in a dimly lit room, the warm light casting dramatic shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of isolation and contemplation.The allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell have cast a somber shadow over his political future, exposing the personal and professional toll of such scandals.Livermore Today

Rep. Eric Swalwell's political career is unraveling rapidly after a former staffer accused him of rape and several other women came forward with claims of sexual misconduct. Within 24 hours, Swalwell went from being a frontrunner in the California governor's race to facing calls to end his campaign and resign from Congress. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has launched a criminal probe into the rape allegation, and Swalwell's campaign and congressional staff have issued a joint statement condemning the 'abhorrent' behavior detailed in the reports.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, a prominent Democratic congressman, have rocked the political landscape in California and raised questions about the party's vetting process for candidates. The fallout could have broader implications for Swalwell's future in politics and the Democratic Party's efforts to maintain control of the state.

The details

The former staffer claims she was raped by Swalwell while drunk at a 2024 charity gala, and that she woke up naked next to him in a hotel room in 2019 after a night of heavy drinking. Three other women have also made claims of sexual misconduct against Swalwell, ranging from inappropriate messages to unwanted contact. Swalwell has denied the allegations but admitted to unspecified 'indiscretions' in a video statement. His campaign and congressional staff have condemned the 'abhorrent' behavior detailed in the reports.

  • In April 2024, the former staffer claims she was raped by Swalwell at a charity gala.
  • In 2019, the former staffer claims she woke up naked next to Swalwell in a hotel room after a night of heavy drinking.
  • On April 11, 2026, the allegations against Swalwell were first reported.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from the Bay Area who was a frontrunner in the California governor's race until the allegations against him surfaced.

Former Staffer

A former staffer who has accused Swalwell of rape and other sexual misconduct.

Manhattan District Attorney's Office

The office that has launched a criminal probe into the rape allegation against Swalwell.

Katie Porter

A former Democratic congresswoman who is calling for Swalwell to end his campaign and resign from Congress.

Stephen Cloobeck

A billionaire whose $26 million Beverly Hills mansion has served as a haven for Swalwell since the scandal broke.

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What they’re saying

“I was pushing him off of me, saying no. He didn't stop.”

— Former Staffer

“These allegations of sexual assault are flat out false.”

— Rep. Eric Swalwell

“The behavior detailed in these reports is abhorrent, beneath the dignity of those serving in public office and betrays the trust of all Californians.”

— Swalwell Campaign and Congressional Staff

What’s next

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has urged survivors and anyone with knowledge of allegations to contact its Special Victims Division. The office will decide whether to bring criminal charges against Swalwell based on the investigation.

The takeaway

The allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell have rocked the California political landscape and raised serious questions about the Democratic Party's vetting process for candidates. Swalwell's refusal to step aside despite mounting pressure from his own party could further damage his political future and the party's efforts to maintain control of the state.