Former Congressman Eric Swalwell Faces DOJ Investigation Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Five women have accused Swalwell of sexual assault and harassment, leading to investigations by the DOJ and district attorneys

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:08pm by

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A fractured, abstract painting in shades of blue, gray, and red depicting a blurred, overlapping figure representing a politician, conveying a sense of instability and turbulence.The investigation into former Rep. Swalwell exposes the growing scrutiny over sexual misconduct claims in the political sphere.San Francisco Today

The Department of Justice has opened an investigation into former California Congressman Eric Swalwell following allegations of sexual assault and harassment from five women. The Los Angeles and Manhattan District Attorneys have also launched investigations into the claims. Swalwell has denied the allegations but announced his resignation from Congress, citing the need to avoid distractions from his duties.

Why it matters

The investigation into Swalwell, a prominent Democratic politician, highlights the ongoing issue of sexual misconduct allegations against public figures. The case could have significant political and legal implications, and the timing of the accusations and Swalwell's resignation raise questions about the motivations and potential consequences.

The details

According to a source, the DOJ has opened an investigation into the sexual assault allegations against Swalwell. The claims were first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and involve a former staffer of Swalwell's. Following the report, Swalwell suspended his campaign for governor of California and resigned from Congress, citing the need to avoid distractions from his duties.

  • The allegations against Swalwell surfaced within the last week.
  • Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress on April 16, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A former Democratic Congressman from California who is now under investigation by the DOJ and district attorneys over sexual assault allegations from five women.

Department of Justice (DOJ)

The federal law enforcement agency that has opened an investigation into the sexual assault allegations against Eric Swalwell.

Los Angeles District Attorney

The district attorney's office in Los Angeles that has also launched an investigation into the claims against Swalwell.

Manhattan District Attorney

The district attorney's office in Manhattan that has opened an investigation into the allegations against Swalwell.

John Fishwick

A former U.S. Attorney who expects the DOJ to investigate the claims against Swalwell, given the potential for crossing state lines and abuse of power.

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What they’re saying

“I think definitely in the case of Eric Swalwell, I think likely DOJ will investigate him over these latest allegations.”

— John Fishwick, Former U.S. Attorney

“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I've made in my past. I will fight serious, false allegations made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.”

— Eric Swalwell

What’s next

The DOJ and district attorney investigations into the sexual assault allegations against Swalwell are ongoing, and the outcomes could have significant political and legal consequences for the former Congressman.

The takeaway

The investigation into Swalwell highlights the continued prevalence of sexual misconduct allegations against public figures, even prominent politicians. The case raises questions about the timing and motivations behind the accusations, as well as the need for thorough due process in such sensitive matters.