Swalwell Campaign Rocked by Staffers' Exodus Amid Assault Claims

Multiple senior aides resign as Democratic congressman denies allegations from former staffer

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:35pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring the fractured, overlapping silhouette of a politician in motion, rendered in bold, angular brushstrokes of dark blue, violet, and red, conveying a sense of instability and upheaval.The sudden exodus of senior staff from Eric Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign exposes the political turmoil caused by sexual assault allegations against the Democratic congressman.Today in Sacramento

U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor has seen a mass exodus of senior staff following new allegations that the Democratic lawmaker sexually assaulted a former staffer. Swalwell has forcefully denied the claims, calling them politically motivated, but the fallout has led to the resignation of at least four key campaign aides, including a top liaison to organized labor groups.

Why it matters

The shake-up in Swalwell's campaign comes at a critical time, just ahead of California's nonpartisan primary where the top two finishers advance to the general election. The allegations and staff departures raise questions about the viability of Swalwell's gubernatorial bid and could impact the broader political landscape in Sacramento.

The details

According to reports, at least four senior members of Swalwell's campaign have resigned in recent days, including Courtni Pugh, a strategic adviser who served as the campaign's top liaison to organized labor groups. The departures followed a report by the San Francisco Chronicle that a former staffer accused Swalwell of having sexual encounters with her while she worked for him and of sexually assaulting her twice when she was too intoxicated to consent.

  • The shake-up in Swalwell's campaign occurred in the days leading up to the publication of the San Francisco Chronicle report.
  • Swalwell's campaign aides left shortly before the story was published.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A U.S. Representative from California who is running for governor and has denied the sexual assault allegations against him.

Courtni Pugh

A strategic adviser who served as the campaign's top liaison to organized labor groups and has resigned from Swalwell's campaign.

Jimmy Gomez

A U.S. Representative from California who was a key surrogate for Swalwell's campaign but has now stepped down, citing a lack of trust.

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What they’re saying

“Today I learned shocking information about Eric Swalwell containing the ugliest and most serious accusations imaginable. My involvement in any campaign begins and ends with trust. I cannot in good conscience remain in any role with this campaign, and I am stepping down from it effective immediately.”

— Jimmy Gomez, U.S. Representative

“These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor. For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman — and have always protected women. I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.”

— Eric Swalwell

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.