Allies Withdraw Support for Swalwell's California Governor Run After Assault Allegations

Democratic congressman denies claims he sexually assaulted a former staffer in 2019 and 2024

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:20pm

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A fractured, abstract painting in shades of navy, gray, and red depicting a blurred, overlapping figure representing a politician, conveying a sense of political turmoil.The allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell have injected chaos and uncertainty into the California governor's race, with prominent Democrats withdrawing support.Today in Sacramento

In a major political reversal, prominent Democratic supporters of Rep. Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor have withdrawn their endorsements after the congressman was accused of sexually assaulting a woman who previously worked for him. Swalwell has denied the allegations as "absolutely false," but prominent Democrats like Sen. Adam Schiff and labor unions have called for him to exit the race.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell come at a critical stage of the wide-open race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom, with mail ballots set to go out next month ahead of the June 2 primary. The scandal threatens to upend the Democratic field and raises questions about Swalwell's political future.

The details

According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman said Swalwell sexually assaulted her in 2019 when she worked for him, and again in 2024 after a charity gala. The woman told the newspaper she did not go to police because she was afraid she would not be believed. Swalwell has denied the allegations, saying they are "absolutely false" and that he will "fight them with everything that I have."

  • The alleged 2019 assault occurred when the woman worked for Swalwell.
  • The alleged 2024 assault occurred after a charity gala.
  • Voters will receive mail ballots next month in advance of the June 2 election.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic U.S. congressman from California who was among the leading candidates in the race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Gavin Newsom

The outgoing governor of California, who has avoided engaging in the contest to replace him.

Nancy Pelosi

The former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, who has not endorsed in the California governor's race but said the "serious allegations" against Swalwell must be investigated.

Adam Schiff

A U.S. senator from California who was among Swalwell's prominent supporters but has now withdrawn his endorsement.

Jimmy Gomez

A Democratic U.S. congressman who helped run Swalwell's campaign but is now ending his role.

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What they’re saying

“These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They're absolutely false. They did not happen, they have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.”

— Rep. Eric Swalwell

“As we continue to learn more, these allegations from multiple sources are deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.”

— Gov. Gavin Newsom

“The serious allegations must be investigated and I spoke to Congressman Swalwell and suggested that be done outside of a gubernatorial campaign.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Former House Speaker

“I'm deeply distressed by the allegations against Congressman Swalwell. He should end his gubernatorial bid.”

— Rep. Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator

“The congressman should leave the race now so there can be full accountability without doubt, distraction, or delay.”

— Rep. Jimmy Gomez

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

These serious allegations against a prominent Democratic candidate threaten to upend the California governor's race and raise broader questions about the party's vetting process and accountability for misconduct.