California Democrat Ends Gubernatorial Run After Sex Assault Allegations

Swalwell's exit leaves crowded field scrambling for his supporters ahead of primary

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:35am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty government office space, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows casting an air of melancholy and uncertainty.The sudden departure of a prominent Democratic candidate leaves the crowded California gubernatorial race in flux, raising questions about the political fallout.NYC Today

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him. The move has left his rivals scrambling to lock down his former supporters in a crowded contest with no clear leader.

Why it matters

Swalwell was considered a leading contender in the race to replace outgoing Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, and his abrupt exit has injected more turmoil into the campaign for the nation's most populous state. The allegations against Swalwell have also raised calls for his resignation from Congress and possible expulsion from the House.

The details

The allegations against Swalwell were first published in the San Francisco Chronicle and later reported by CNN. A woman alleged that Swalwell sexually assaulted her in 2019, when she worked for him, and again in 2024. She said she did not go to the police at the time because she was afraid she would not be believed. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is now investigating the alleged 2024 incident, which occurred in New York.

  • On Friday, the allegations against Swalwell were first published in the San Francisco Chronicle.
  • On Sunday, Swalwell announced he was suspending his campaign for California governor.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic U.S. Representative from California who was running for governor before suspending his campaign following the allegations of sexual assault.

Katie Porter

A leading Democratic candidate for California governor.

Tom Steyer

A billionaire hedge fund manager-turned-liberal activist who is also running for California governor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is investigating the alleged 2024 incident that occurred in New York. Additionally, there are calls for Swalwell to resign from Congress, and a possible expulsion vote could come up quickly as the House returns to session on Tuesday.

The takeaway

Swalwell's abrupt exit from the California gubernatorial race has left the crowded field scrambling to lock down his former supporters, while also raising serious questions about his conduct and potential consequences for his political future.