Swalwell Faces Misconduct Allegations as California Governor Race Heats Up

Congressman denies claims of inappropriate behavior with staffers as calls mount for him to exit the race.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:36pm

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A cinematic painting depicting a solitary political figure sitting alone in a dimly lit office, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a pensive, nostalgic mood.As allegations of misconduct cast a shadow over his gubernatorial campaign, a California congressman finds himself isolated and introspective in the face of growing political turmoil.Riverside Today

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democratic candidate for California governor, is facing allegations of misconduct with staffers, prompting calls for him to drop out of the race. While details are limited, the claims have been amplified on social media, with one activist group saying Swalwell had staffers sign NDAs. Swalwell's campaign has strongly denied the 'false, outrageous' allegations, but the controversy has intensified the already heated governor's race.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell come at a critical time in the California governor's race, which has drawn national attention. As a high-profile Democratic candidate, any misconduct claims could significantly impact the race and Swalwell's political future. The controversy also highlights the role of social media in amplifying unverified claims and the challenges candidates face in addressing such allegations.

The details

The accusations against Swalwell surfaced on social media, with Gen-Z for Change Executive Director Cheyenne Hunt claiming she received a message alleging the congressman had interns 'sign NDAs so they don't speak up' after possible inappropriate conduct. Another Democratic strategist, Bhavik Lathia, also stated that the allegations are 'real' and that 'a lot more' will be coming out soon. However, no individual has directly come forward with specific claims, and no evidence has yet surfaced to support the allegations.

  • The accusations against Swalwell emerged in early April 2026, just 27 days before the start of the California governor's race primary.
  • Swalwell, a sitting congressman, is facing calls to drop out of the race amid the controversy.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is running for governor of the state.

Cheyenne Hunt

The executive director of the activist group Gen-Z for Change, who claims to have received a message about alleged misconduct by Swalwell.

Bhavik Lathia

A Democratic strategist who has stated that the allegations against Swalwell are 'real' and that more information will be coming out soon.

Micah Beasley

A spokesperson for Swalwell's campaign, who has called the allegations 'false' and 'outrageous.'

Ruben Gallego

A Democratic senator from Arizona who has defended Swalwell, saying the accusations are surfacing because the congressman is in the lead in the governor's race.

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What they’re saying

“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, Swalwell campaign spokesperson

“Another day closer to the truth coming out about Eric Swalwell and his history of alleged sexual harassment and abuse against women.”

— Cheyenne Hunt, Gen-Z for Change Executive Director

“When you are in first place, is when they target you. Eric is a fighter and he will win the Governors race.”

— Ruben Gallego, U.S. Senator (D-AZ)

What’s next

The California governor's race primary is set to begin in late April 2026, and the controversy surrounding Swalwell's alleged misconduct is expected to continue to be a focus in the lead-up to the election.

The takeaway

The allegations against Swalwell highlight the challenges candidates face in addressing unverified claims on social media, especially in high-profile races. The controversy also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in political campaigns, as well as the need for a thorough and impartial investigation of any credible misconduct allegations.