California Democrats Respond to Swalwell Rape Allegations

Most remain silent as some call for Swalwell to drop out of gubernatorial race

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:04pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting of a political podium repeated in overlapping geometric shapes and vibrant colors, conveying a sense of disruption and tension.The allegations against Rep. Swalwell have fractured the California Democratic party, exposing deep divisions as they navigate the sensitive case.San Jose Today

Barely any of Rep. Eric Swalwell's fellow elected California Democrats have called for him to resign his Congressional seat, though some said he should drop out of the state's gubernatorial race, after multiple women accused him of sexual assault.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, a frontrunner in the race to become California's next governor, have rocked the state's Democratic political establishment, with many of his colleagues and other elected officials remaining silent or stopping short of demanding his resignation from Congress.

The details

A former Swalwell staffer alleged he sexually assaulted her twice when she was intoxicated and could not give consent. Three other women, including Democratic content creator Ally Sammarco, also came forward, claiming the Congressman committed sexual misconduct against them. Swalwell has denied the allegations, calling them 'flat false.'

  • On Friday, April 11, 2026, the allegations against Swalwell were first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
  • Later that day, CNN reported that three additional women had come forward with claims of sexual misconduct by Swalwell.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic Congressman from California who is running for governor, accused of sexual assault and misconduct by multiple women.

Ally Sammarco

A Democratic content creator who has accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct.

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic Governor of California who has not endorsed a candidate in the race to succeed him.

Alex Padilla

One of California's Democratic U.S. Senators who has called for Swalwell to step aside from the gubernatorial race.

Adam Schiff

One of California's Democratic U.S. Senators who has retracted his endorsement of Swalwell in the gubernatorial primary.

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What they’re saying

“As we continue to learn more, these allegations from multiple sources are deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

“Swalwell should step aside to ensure a full, transparent investigation free from undue influence.”

— Alex Padilla, U.S. Senator

“The incredibly serious and disturbing allegations against him must be investigated fully.”

— Pete Aguilar, House Democratic Caucus Chair

What’s next

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has opened an investigation into the allegations regarding Swalwell.

The takeaway

The allegations against Swalwell have exposed deep divisions within the California Democratic party, with many elected officials remaining silent or stopping short of calling for his resignation from Congress, even as they withdraw support for his gubernatorial campaign. The case highlights the challenges facing the party as it navigates sensitive allegations of misconduct against one of its rising stars.