Allegations of Sexual Misconduct Emerge Against California Gubernatorial Candidate

Activist group claims 'shocking' number of women coming forward with stories of harassment and abuse by Rep. Eric Swalwell

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:22pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of a simple wooden desk in an empty office, the surface reflecting a faint glow from a window casting diagonal shadows across the scene, evoking a sense of unease and uncertainty.The allegations against Swalwell cast a somber shadow over his gubernatorial campaign, raising concerns about abuse of power and the treatment of women in politics.Riverside Today

An activist and attorney with a progressive group announced on social media that she is 'working with a number of women who are in the process' of officially coming forward with stories of sexual harassment and misconduct against Democratic congressman and California gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell. The group claims the allegations range from 'uncomfortable comments to potentially criminal conduct' and that they have secured pro bono legal representation for the women.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell come at a critical time, as he is considered a frontrunner in California's crowded gubernatorial primary race. The claims of sexual misconduct could seriously damage his campaign and Democratic efforts to retain the governor's office in the state.

The details

Cheyenne Hunt with Gen-Z For Change said in a social media post that the number of women willing to share their stories was 'pretty shocking,' although concrete details were not immediately available. Hunt claimed the women 'even alleged abuse' against Swalwell, including 'targeting employees, interns, and fans' and 'acting as a mentor just to exploit that power.' The group said they have connected the women with investigative reporting teams and are in the process of the women sharing information with the media.

  • On April 6, 2026, Cheyenne Hunt announced on social media that she is working with women who are coming forward with allegations against Swalwell.

The players

Cheyenne Hunt

An activist and attorney with the progressive group Gen-Z For Change who is working with women making allegations against Swalwell.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman and candidate for California governor who is facing allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women.

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What they’re saying

“I got involved because the first victim who approached me is a close friend, but when I saw that there were others who's experiences fit the same pattern of manipulation and abuse of power, I knew I couldn't stay silent.”

— Cheyenne Hunt, Activist and attorney

“Targeting employees, interns, and fans. Acting as a mentor just to exploit that power. DMs and Snapchat messages. Allegations ranging from uncomfortable comments to potentially criminal conduct”

— Cheyenne Hunt, Activist and attorney

What’s next

The group says they have secured pro bono legal representation for the women and are in the process of connecting them with investigative reporting teams to share their stories publicly.

The takeaway

The allegations against Swalwell, if proven true, could significantly impact the California gubernatorial race and Democratic efforts to retain control of the governor's office in the state. The claims of sexual misconduct and abuse of power raise serious questions about Swalwell's judgment and character that could resonate with voters.