Former Colleague Says Rumors of Swalwell Misconduct Swirled for Years

Allegations against ex-congressman prompt calls for action on long-standing rumors.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:10am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty congressional office, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows cast across the room, creating a sense of solitude and unease.The sudden departure of a longtime congressman leaves an eerie silence in the halls of power, as allegations of misconduct linger.Los Angeles Today

Amid a wave of sexual misconduct allegations against former Congressman Eric Swalwell, a fellow California Democrat says rumors about Swalwell's behavior have circulated for years. Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress this week following the allegations, which include claims from at least six women. One accuser, Lonna Drewes, alleges Swalwell assaulted her in 2018. Swalwell has denied the allegations but said he would step down to avoid distracting from his duties.

Why it matters

The Swalwell allegations highlight the ongoing challenges of addressing long-standing rumors of misconduct, even among high-profile elected officials. The case raises questions about whether more could have been done to investigate the persistent reports and protect potential victims.

The details

At least six women have accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, leading to investigations by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and others. One accuser, Lonna Drewes, publicly alleged that Swalwell drugged, raped, and choked her in a hotel room in 2018. Swalwell has denied the allegations but said he would resign to avoid distracting from his congressional duties.

  • Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress on April 15, 2026.
  • Drewes made her allegations against Swalwell at a press conference in Beverly Hills on April 16, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A former Democratic congressman from California who represented a district east of San Francisco. Swalwell resigned from Congress this week amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations.

Lonna Drewes

A woman who publicly accused Swalwell of drugging, raping, and choking her in a hotel room in 2018.

Rep. Sam Liccardo

A Democratic congressman from California who said rumors about Swalwell's misconduct had been circulating for years.

Rep. Pete Aguilar

A Democratic congressman from California who expressed shock and sadness over the allegations against Swalwell.

Gov. Gavin Newsom

The governor of California who has called a special election to fill Swalwell's vacant House seat.

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What they’re saying

“Rumors about that were going on for many, many years, and you can't act individually on rumors, but certainly, when you have a swirl of rumors like this, it raises the question: Why wasn't there action taken?”

— Rep. Sam Liccardo, Democratic Congressman from California

“Just shock and sad -- felt for the accusers who absolutely need to be believed, and shocked and saddened for everybody involved. Just deeply disturbing allegations.”

— Rep. Pete Aguilar, Democratic Congressman from California

What’s next

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is continuing its investigation into the allegations against Swalwell. A special election has been called for August 18, 2026 to fill Swalwell's vacant House seat.

The takeaway

The Swalwell case highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing persistent rumors of misconduct, even among high-profile elected officials. It raises questions about whether more could have been done to investigate the allegations and protect potential victims over the years.