Swalwell Campaign Rocked by Staff Exodus After Sexual Assault Accusation

Key allies withdraw support as ranking Democrats call on congressman to exit California governor's race

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:09pm by

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A dynamic, abstract painting of a political podium or lectern, its form fractured and repeated in overlapping geometric waves of dark blue, grey, and red, conveying a sense of political upheaval and instability.As allegations of sexual assault rock a California gubernatorial campaign, the fallout exposes deep divisions within the Democratic party.San Francisco Today

Rep. Eric Swalwell's (D-CA) campaign for California governor was hit with a wave of staff resignations and loss of key Democratic support after a former staffer accused the congressman of sexual assault. At least four campaign figures, including a senior adviser, have resigned, while prominent allies like Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) have withdrawn their endorsements and called on Swalwell to exit the race.

Why it matters

The fallout from the sexual assault allegation against Swalwell has severely damaged his campaign just months before the California gubernatorial primary. The mass exodus of staff and loss of high-profile Democratic support raises serious questions about Swalwell's viability as a candidate and the party's willingness to stand by him in the face of such serious accusations.

The details

According to reports, at least four campaign staff, including senior adviser Courtni Pugh, have resigned from Swalwell's campaign. Key Democratic allies like Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-CA) and the California Teachers Association have also withdrawn their support. Prominent Democrats like Reps. Ruben Gallego and Adam Schiff have called on Swalwell to withdraw from the race, with Schiff saying he believes the accuser's story.

  • On April 10, 2026, the San Francisco Chronicle published a report detailing the sexual assault allegation against Swalwell from a former staffer.
  • Shortly before the Chronicle report, several campaign staff, including senior adviser Courtni Pugh, resigned from Swalwell's campaign.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is running for governor and has been accused of sexually assaulting a former staffer.

Courtni Pugh

Swalwell's senior campaign adviser who resigned following the sexual assault allegation.

Rep. Jimmy Gomez

A Democratic congressman from California who had helped connect Swalwell with influential figures in Sacramento but has now withdrawn his support.

Rep. Ruben Gallego

A Democratic congressman from Arizona who was a longtime friend and supporter of Swalwell but has now withdrawn his endorsement, calling the allegations 'indefensible'.

Sen. Adam Schiff

A Democratic senator from California who has withdrawn his endorsement of Swalwell and believes the congressman should withdraw from the race.

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What they’re saying

“Today I learned shocking information about Eric Swalwell containing the ugliest and most serious accusations imaginable. My involvement in any campaign begins and ends with trust. I cannot in good conscience remain in any role with this campaign, and I am stepping down from it effective immediately.”

— Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Democratic congressman from California

“I've read the San Francisco Chronicle's reporting and I take it seriously. What is described is indefensible. Women who come forward with accounts like this deserve to be heard with respect, not questioned or dismissed. I regret having come to his defense on social media prior...”

— Rep. Ruben Gallego, Democratic congressman from Arizona

“I have read the San Francisco Chronicle's account and I am deeply distressed by its allegations. This woman was brave to come forward, and we should take her story seriously. I am withdrawing my endorsement immediately, and believe that he should withdraw from the race.”

— Sen. Adam Schiff, Democratic senator from California

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.