Prominent Democrats Withdraw Support for Swalwell's California Governor Run Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Congressman denies claims, but top party figures call for him to exit the race as the primary season heats up.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:50am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of a politician's desk in an empty office, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and creating deep shadows across the surface.The allegations against Rep. Swalwell have cast a long shadow over the California governor's race, exposing the challenges of vetting candidates in a crowded primary field.Today in Sacramento

In a dramatic 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 Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor have withdrawn their endorsements after the congressman was accused of sexually assaulting a former staffer. Swalwell has denied the allegations as "absolutely false," but powerful figures like U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and labor unions have urged him to exit the crowded race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, one of the leading Democratic candidates, come at a critical stage of the wide-open campaign to lead the nation's most populous state. With voters set to receive mail ballots next month ahead of the June 2 primary, the party is facing a messy primary season that some fear could cost them a spot in the November general election.

The details

According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman who previously worked for Swalwell in 2019 has accused him of sexually assaulting her that year and again in 2024 after a charity gala, alleging she was too intoxicated to consent to sex on both occasions. The woman told the newspaper she did not go to the police out of fear she would not be believed. Swalwell has denied the claims, 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.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman representing a district east of San Francisco who is one of the leading candidates in the race to replace outgoing California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California, who is likely to run for president in 2028 but 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 has suggested the allegations against Swalwell be investigated outside of his campaign.

Adam Schiff

A U.S. senator from California who was a prominent supporter of Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign but has now withdrawn his endorsement, calling the allegations "deeply distressing."

Jimmy Gomez

A Democratic congressman who helped run Swalwell's campaign but is now immediately ending his role, saying the congressman "should leave the race now so there can be full accountability."

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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 campaign.”

— Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator

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

— Jimmy Gomez, Democratic Congressman

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.