Ex-Staffer Accuses Rep. Swalwell of Sexual Assault

Swalwell denies allegations, says he will 'fight them with everything'

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:39pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty political office desk, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the surface, conveying a sense of investigative melancholy and the weight of serious allegations.The allegations against Rep. Swalwell cast an unsettling shadow over his gubernatorial campaign, exposing the vulnerabilities of those who accuse powerful politicians of misconduct.NYC Today

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), the leading Democrat gubernatorial candidate for California, has been accused of rape by a former staffer and varying forms of sexual misconduct by three other women. Swalwell has denied all claims of assault, though acknowledged that he has made 'mistakes' that he has to work through with his wife.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, if true, would represent a significant abuse of power and betrayal of public trust by a high-profile elected official. The timing of the claims, just before a major election, also raises questions about the political motivations behind the accusations.

The details

The first alleged victim, a former Swalwell staffer, said the congressman made nonconsensual sexual contact with her on multiple occasions in 2019 and 2024 when she was drunk. She said she felt pressured and fearful of the consequences of coming forward due to Swalwell's power. Three other women also accused Swalwell of sending them unsolicited nude photos or explicit messages. Swalwell has denied the allegations but acknowledged making 'mistakes' in his personal life.

  • In September 2019, the former staffer said she woke up naked in Swalwell's hotel room after a night of drinking with him.
  • In 2024, the former staffer said Swalwell sexually assaulted her in a hotel room after a gala event.

The players

Rep. Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is the leading candidate for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.

Cheyenne Hunt

A one-time congressional candidate who reported that multiple women were planning to come forward with allegations against Swalwell.

Bri Gillis

A campaign advisor who claimed that 'anyone who has been in DC for five minutes knows this' about the allegations against Swalwell.

Bhavik Lathia

A former staffer of both Kamala Harris's and Bernie Sanders' presidential campaigns, who said he confirmed with a 'trusted friend' that the allegations are 'real.'

Ally Sammarco

A social media influencer who accused Swalwell of sending her unsolicited nude photos or explicit messages.

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What they’re saying

“I was pushing him off of me, saying no. He didn't stop.”

— Former Swalwell staffer

“Well, Eric shouldn't have raped me.”

— Former Swalwell staffer

“These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the front-runner for governor. For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women. I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.”

— Rep. Eric Swalwell

“You can't be serious.”

— Ally Sammarco, Social media influencer

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These serious allegations against a high-profile political figure raise concerns about the abuse of power, the treatment of women, and the potential for political motivations behind such claims. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Swalwell's political future and the broader issue of sexual misconduct in politics.