Rep. Swalwell suspends California governor campaign amid assault allegations

The Democratic congressman faces multiple accusations of sexual misconduct from former staffers.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:34am by

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A fragmented, abstract painting of a political podium in shades of blue and purple, conveying a sense of disruption and instability.The suspension of a high-profile politician's campaign amid serious allegations of misconduct reflects the turbulence and uncertainty facing the California Democratic party.San Francisco Today

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) has suspended his campaign for California governor amid allegations that he sexually assaulted and raped one of his former staffers, as well as accusations from three other women. Swalwell apologized for 'mistakes in judgment' in his past and said he will fight the 'serious, false allegations' against him.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, a prominent Democratic politician, have sparked bipartisan calls for his resignation from Congress. The suspension of his gubernatorial campaign is a significant development that could impact California politics.

The details

According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, Swalwell is accused of assaulting one of his staffers multiple times when she was too intoxicated to consent. Since then, three other women have come forward with additional allegations of misconduct against the congressman.

  • On Friday, the San Francisco Chronicle published the initial report on the allegations against Swalwell.
  • On Sunday, Swalwell announced he was suspending his campaign for California governor.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who was running for governor before suspending his campaign amid allegations of sexual assault and rape.

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What they’re saying

“I am suspending my campaign for Governor. To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I've made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that's my fight, not a campaign's.”

— Rep. Eric Swalwell

What’s next

Swalwell faces calls from both Democrats and Republicans to resign from Congress over the allegations. The House Ethics Committee is expected to investigate the claims against him.

The takeaway

The suspension of Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign highlights the serious nature of the allegations against him and the potential political fallout he faces. The case underscores the ongoing challenges around addressing sexual misconduct allegations, even against high-profile elected officials.