Rosie O'Donnell Reacts to Eric Swalwell Scandal: 'Men Suck!'

The comedian says she's 'heartbroken' after learning of the sexual misconduct allegations against the California congressman.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:50am by

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A serene, cinematic painting of a dimly lit political office desk, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the surface, conveying a mood of melancholy and disillusionment.The revelations of misconduct allegations against a once-promising politician have left a sense of betrayal and disappointment in the political landscape.San Francisco Today

Rosie O'Donnell has expressed her disappointment and frustration over the sexual misconduct allegations against Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California. O'Donnell, who previously supported and donated to Swalwell, revealed that she sent him a message saying 'You know, Bill Clinton broke my heart, and now you did too.' She went on to declare, 'You know the conclusion I've come to? Men suck.'

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, which include claims that he drugged and raped a woman and sexually assaulted a staffer, have rocked the political landscape. O'Donnell's reaction highlights the broader issue of sexual misconduct by powerful men, which has been a major focus of the #MeToo movement.

The details

Four women have accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, including allegations that he drugged and raped one woman and sexually assaulted one of his staffers. Swalwell has denied the allegations but admitted to making 'mistakes.' O'Donnell, who previously supported Swalwell, says she is 'heartbroken' by the scandal and has lost faith in men, stating 'People have images and they sell themselves as one thing, but they're not that thing.'

  • On Monday, four women accused Rep. Eric Swalwell of sexual misconduct.
  • Also on Monday, Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress.

The players

Rosie O'Donnell

A comedian who previously supported and donated to Rep. Eric Swalwell.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who has been accused of sexual misconduct by four women.

Bill Clinton

A former U.S. president who was impeached in 1998 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice following a sexual harassment lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“You know the conclusion I've come to? Men suck.”

— Rosie O'Donnell, Comedian

“You know, Bill Clinton broke my heart, and now you did too.”

— Rosie O'Donnell, Comedian

The takeaway

O'Donnell's reaction highlights the broader issue of sexual misconduct by powerful men, which has been a major focus of the #MeToo movement. The allegations against Swalwell have rocked the political landscape and raised questions about the behavior of those in positions of authority.