Top DOJ Official Mocks California Governor Candidate After Swalwell Exit

Harmeet Dhillon criticizes Katie Porter's reaction to Rep. Eric Swalwell's campaign suspension amid sexual assault allegations.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:35pm by

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

One of the Department of Justice's top prosecutors, Harmeet Dhillon, took a shot at California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter for boasting about a glowing endorsement she received after the emergence of bombshell sexual assault allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell, who had been leading in the polls among Democrats before suspending his campaign.

Why it matters

The fallout from the Swalwell allegations has plunged the California Democratic party into chaos ahead of the crucial June 2 primary, with Porter now seen as a frontrunner. Dhillon's public criticism of Porter's response highlights the bitter partisan divisions in the race.

The details

Dhillon, a top Trump-era DOJ official, reshared a post from Porter in which the candidate touted a piece written by a San Francisco political columnist that suggested 'rallying around Porter.' Dhillon responded by writing 'You're a freak too' on X, mocking Porter. Porter has faced her own controversies, including an outburst at a TV reporter and accusations of abusive behavior toward her ex-husband.

  • Swalwell suspended his campaign for governor on April 13, 2026 after four women came forward alleging he sexually assaulted them.
  • Porter made headlines in October 2025 for her outburst at a TV reporter before being exposed for berating a staffer and throwing a tantrum during a televised interview in 2021.

The players

Harmeet Dhillon

A top prosecutor at the Department of Justice during the Trump administration who publicly criticized California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter.

Katie Porter

A California Democratic gubernatorial candidate who has faced controversies of her own, including an outburst at a TV reporter and accusations of abusive behavior toward her ex-husband.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman who suspended his campaign for California governor after four women came forward alleging he sexually assaulted them.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You're a freak too”

— Harmeet Dhillon, Top DOJ Official

What’s next

The fallout from the Swalwell allegations is expected to continue shaping the California governor's race in the lead-up to the June 2 primary.

The takeaway

The bitter partisan divisions in the California governor's race have been further inflamed by the Swalwell scandal, with top officials from opposing sides trading barbs and accusations. This underscores the high stakes and heated political climate surrounding the contest.