California Governor Candidate Denies Misconduct Claims

Eric Swalwell addresses online allegations of inappropriate behavior with staffers

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:21am

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A cinematic, painterly illustration of a lone political figure standing in a dimly lit government office, the scene bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, capturing a sense of solitude and contemplation.As California's gubernatorial race heats up, a candidate's response to unproven online allegations highlights the challenges of addressing unsubstantiated rumors in the digital age.Today in Sacramento

Democratic California governor candidate Eric Swalwell has denied online allegations of inappropriate behavior with female staffers. Swalwell addressed the claims during a town hall event in Sacramento, stating the allegations are false and that there have never been any settlements or non-disclosure agreements related to such issues in his office.

Why it matters

As a frontrunner in the California governor's race, Swalwell felt compelled to directly address the online rumors to avoid any questions about his conduct. Unsubstantiated claims of misconduct can be damaging to political campaigns, especially close to an election.

The details

Swalwell told reporters, "No. No. It's false. And also, you know, some of the allegations I've seen, which is that we've had NDAs in the office, have never. There's never been an allegation, and there's never been a settlement." He added that he wanted to address the issue because the election is only 27 days away, saying, "I don't want there to be any question." Swalwell's campaign stated that opponents are targeting him because he is a frontrunner in the race.

  • Swalwell spoke to reporters on April 8, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic candidate for California governor who is denying online allegations of inappropriate behavior with female staffers.

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What they’re saying

“No. No. It's false. And also, you know, some of the allegations I've seen, which is that we've had NDAs in the office, have never. There's never been an allegation, and there's never been a settlement.”

— Eric Swalwell, Democratic Candidate for California Governor

“Yeah. I don't want there to be any question.”

— Eric Swalwell, Democratic Candidate for California Governor

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges political candidates face in addressing unsubstantiated online rumors, especially close to an election. Swalwell felt compelled to directly deny the allegations to avoid any potential damage to his campaign as a frontrunner in the California governor's race.