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

Prominent Democrats and labor unions distance themselves from Swalwell's campaign following claims of sexual misconduct.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:18am

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A cinematic painting of a solitary political podium or debate stage in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of tension and uncertainty surrounding the allegations.As allegations of misconduct rock a high-profile political campaign, the once-vibrant stage of civic discourse appears dimmed and empty.Today in Sacramento

In a dramatic political reversal, key supporters of Rep. Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor have withdrawn their endorsements after the congressman denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him. Prominent Democrats like U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and powerful labor unions have called for Swalwell to exit the race, while the allegations have thrown the crowded primary into turmoil just weeks before voters receive mail ballots.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell come at a critical stage in the wide-open race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom, with the primary election just months away. Swalwell was considered a leading Democratic contender, and his exit could significantly reshape the field. The fallout also highlights the party's ongoing struggles with issues of misconduct and accountability.

The details

According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, a woman alleged that Swalwell sexually assaulted her in 2019 when she worked for him, and again in 2024 after a charity gala. The woman said she was too intoxicated to consent to sex in both instances. Swalwell has denied the allegations, calling them 'flat false.' However, his most prominent supporters, including Schiff and powerful labor unions, have swiftly withdrawn their endorsements and called for him to exit the race.

  • The allegations surfaced in April 2026, just weeks before voters will receive mail ballots for the June 2 primary election.
  • The alleged 2019 assault occurred when the woman worked for Swalwell, while the 2024 incident allegedly took place after a charity gala.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman representing a district east of San Francisco who was considered a leading contender in the race to replace outgoing California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff

A prominent Democratic senator who withdrew his endorsement of Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign following the allegations.

Gavin Newsom

The outgoing governor of California, who said the allegations against Swalwell are 'deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.'

Nancy Pelosi

The former House Speaker, who said the 'serious allegations' against Swalwell must be investigated outside of his gubernatorial campaign.

Rep. Jimmy Gomez

A Democratic congressman who helped run Swalwell's campaign but is now ending his role, calling for Swalwell to leave the race.

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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

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

— Rep. Jimmy Gomez

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

— U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff

What’s next

The allegations against Swalwell will likely be a central focus of the California governor's race in the coming weeks, as voters prepare to cast their ballots. Swalwell has vowed to fight the claims, but the withdrawal of support from key Democratic allies has significantly damaged his campaign. It remains to be seen whether he will heed calls to exit the race.

The takeaway

The fallout from the allegations against Swalwell highlights the Democratic Party's ongoing struggles with issues of misconduct and accountability, even as it seeks to maintain control of the California governor's mansion. The crowded primary field could also complicate the party's efforts to unite behind a single candidate and avoid a costly intraparty battle.