Congressman Swalwell Faces Sexual Assault Probe by Manhattan DA

Allegations of nonconsensual encounters and misconduct derail Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:27am

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A quiet, cinematic painting of a solitary government office desk bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of political tension and unease.The investigation into sexual assault allegations against Congressman Swalwell casts a somber shadow over his gubernatorial campaign.NYC Today

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has launched an investigation into sexual assault allegations against Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, who is currently running for governor of California. A former staffer has accused Swalwell of two nonconsensual sexual encounters, while three other women have alleged sexual misconduct including unwanted touching and explicit messages. The probe has created a crisis for Swalwell's campaign as he faces increasing calls to withdraw.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell, a high-profile Democratic politician, come at a critical time as he seeks the California governorship. The investigation by the Manhattan DA's office could have significant political implications, potentially derailing Swalwell's campaign and raising questions about misconduct and accountability within the political sphere.

The details

According to reports, a former staffer who previously worked in Swalwell's district office has accused the congressman of two nonconsensual sexual encounters - one in California in 2019 and another in a New York City hotel room in 2024. The woman alleged that she was too intoxicated to consent during both incidents. Beyond this, three other women have accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, including sending unsolicited explicit messages and images, as well as unwanted touching and kissing.

  • The first alleged incident occurred in California in 2019 while the woman was employed by Swalwell.
  • The second alleged incident took place in a New York City hotel room in 2024 following an awards event.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who is currently a candidate for governor of that state.

Manhattan District Attorney's Office

The district attorney's office that has launched an investigation into the sexual assault allegations against Swalwell, with the probe being conducted by the Special Victims Division.

Elias Dabaie

Swalwell's attorney, who has characterized the claims as a coordinated political attack.

Ally Sammarco

A woman who alleged that she was 24 years old and seeking employment on Capitol Hill when she first met Swalwell, who subsequently invited her to his office in Washington, D.C.

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What’s next

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has urged any survivors or individuals with knowledge of these allegations to contact prosecutors. The office stated that its staff is trained to handle such matters in a survivor-centered and trauma-informed manner.

The takeaway

The allegations against Congressman Swalwell have the potential to significantly impact his gubernatorial campaign, raising questions about misconduct and accountability within the political sphere. The investigation by the Manhattan DA's office will be closely watched as it unfolds.