Allegations of Sexual Assault Upend California Gubernatorial Candidate's Campaign

Eric Swalwell faces mounting accusations from former staffers as political allies withdraw support

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:57pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting in shades of blue, violet, and crimson, with the fragmented silhouette of a politician's head dissolving into overlapping geometric shapes, conveying a sense of the scandal and downfall surrounding the subject.The unraveling of a political career, as allegations of misconduct shatter the facade of power.Washington Today

Multiple women have come forward with allegations of sexual assault and misconduct against California gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell. The claims include rape, inappropriate touching, and the sending of unsolicited nude photos. In the wake of these allegations, Swalwell's political allies, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senators Adam Schiff and Ruben Gallego, have withdrawn their endorsements.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, if true, raise serious concerns about his conduct and fitness for public office. The fallout from these claims also highlights the complex dynamics of power and accountability in politics, as Swalwell's former enablers now seek to distance themselves from the scandal.

The details

According to reports, four women have accused Swalwell of sexual assault and misconduct, including a former staffer who alleged she was raped by the congressman on two occasions when she was too intoxicated to consent. Another woman claimed Swalwell left her 'bruised and bleeding' after a hotel room assault. The allegations also include Swalwell sending unsolicited nude photos to multiple women.

  • In February 2026, one of the alleged assaults was reported to have occurred.
  • This week, the allegations against Swalwell were made public.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A California congressman and the leading Democratic candidate for California governor, who is facing multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct from former staffers.

Nancy Pelosi

The former Speaker of the House, who previously protected Swalwell from calls to remove him from the House Intelligence Committee despite concerns over his relationship with an alleged Chinese spy.

Adam Schiff

A Democratic senator from California who has withdrawn his endorsement of Swalwell in the wake of the allegations.

Ruben Gallego

A Democratic senator from Arizona and Swalwell's former campaign chair, who has also withdrawn his endorsement.

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What they’re saying

“I don't have any concern about Mr. Swalwell.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Former Speaker of the House

“Your actions threaten to expose you, others at the FBI, and the FBI itself to significant legal liability.”

— Norm Eisen and Sean Hecker, Attorneys for Eric Swalwell

What’s next

The allegations against Swalwell are still under investigation, and it remains to be seen how they will impact his gubernatorial campaign. The withdrawal of support from high-profile Democrats like Pelosi, Schiff, and Gallego suggests that the party may be distancing itself from Swalwell in the wake of these claims.

The takeaway

The Swalwell scandal highlights the complex dynamics of power and accountability in politics, as well as the challenges of addressing allegations of misconduct, even against high-profile figures. It raises questions about how such behavior could go unchecked for so long, and the role that political allies and the media play in enabling or exposing such conduct.