Prominent Democrats withdraw support for Swalwell's California governor bid

Allegations of sexual assault prompt reversal of endorsements for congressman's campaign

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:52am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty government office space, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows cast across the room, creating a sense of political uncertainty and unease.The withdrawal of support from prominent Democrats casts a long shadow over Swalwell's gubernatorial ambitions amid the assault allegations.Today in Sacramento

In a swift political turnaround, several prominent Democratic supporters, including U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and major labor unions, have withdrawn their endorsements of Rep. Eric Swalwell's campaign for California governor. This comes after Swalwell denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him.

Why it matters

Swalwell was considered a leading Democratic contender to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom, so the sudden loss of high-profile backing is a significant blow to his gubernatorial ambitions. The allegations and subsequent withdrawal of support raise questions about Swalwell's political future and the Democratic party's handling of misconduct claims.

The details

The allegations against Swalwell surfaced on Friday, prompting a swift response from his top supporters. Sen. Adam Schiff, who had previously endorsed Swalwell, quickly withdrew his support, as did several powerful labor unions that had backed the congressman's campaign. Swalwell has denied the assault allegations, but the damage to his campaign appears severe, with key allies abandoning him just hours after the claims emerged.

  • The allegations against Swalwell surfaced on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who was running for governor before the assault allegations surfaced.

U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff

A prominent Democratic senator from California who had previously endorsed Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign.

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What they’re saying

“The allegations against Rep. Swalwell are extremely serious, and I believe it is in the best interest of the Democratic party and the people of California that he withdraw from the governor's race immediately.”

— U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff

The takeaway

This sudden reversal of support for Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign highlights the political risks of misconduct allegations, even for high-profile Democratic figures. It remains to be seen whether Swalwell can weather this storm or if the damage to his political future will be lasting.