Swalwell Suspends Campaign For California Governor After Sexual Assault Allegations

Democrats quickly abandoned the congressman after reports of sexual misconduct were published.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:33am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty political office space, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows across the room, conveying a sense of melancholy and uncertainty.The sudden suspension of a prominent politician's campaign casts a somber mood over the state's political landscape.Today in Sacramento

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman, including when she worked for him. The reports led to a swift backlash from Swalwell's Democratic rivals and allies, who urged him to exit the race and even resign from Congress.

Why it matters

The accusations against Swalwell have shaken up the crowded Democratic primary race for California governor, which was already seen as potentially leading to a general election without a Democratic candidate. Swalwell's exit leaves his rivals scrambling to win over his supporters and donors.

The details

The allegations against Swalwell were first published in the San Francisco Chronicle and later reported by CNN. A woman accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her twice, including when she worked for him. Swalwell has denied the allegations but has apologized for "mistakes in judgment" in his past. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is investigating the alleged 2024 incident that occurred in New York.

  • The allegations were published on Friday, April 12, 2026.
  • Swalwell suspended his campaign on Sunday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic U.S. Representative from California who suspended his campaign for California governor following sexual assault allegations.

Gavin Newsom

The current Democratic governor of California who is term-limited and cannot seek a third term.

Tom Steyer

A billionaire climate activist and prominent Democratic candidate in the California governor's race.

Katie Porter

A former U.S. Representative and Democratic candidate in the California governor's race.

Steve Hilton

A former Fox News host and Republican candidate in the California governor's race who has the backing of former President Trump.

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What they’re saying

“I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that's my fight, not a campaign's.”

— Eric Swalwell, U.S. Representative

“This is not a partisan issue. This cuts across party lines. And it is depravity of the way that women have been treated.”

— Pramila Jayapal, U.S. Representative

What’s next

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is investigating the alleged 2024 incident that occurred in New York. Additionally, there are calls for Swalwell to resign from his seat in Congress, which could come to a head quickly as the House returns to session on Tuesday.

The takeaway

The allegations against Swalwell have upended the California governor's race, leading to a swift backlash from his Democratic rivals and allies. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges around sexual misconduct allegations in politics and the pressure on elected officials to address such issues.