Bill Maher Calls Eric Swalwell a 'F--king Creep', Says He 'Never Liked' Disgraced Democrat

Maher's comments come as Swalwell battles sexual misconduct and harassment allegations from five women.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:40am

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A cinematic painting depicting a solitary political figure seated alone in a dimly lit room, with warm diagonal sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative, nostalgic mood.As allegations of misconduct swirl, a lone political figure sits in the shadows, a reminder of the complex dynamics that can surround such 'open secrets'.NYC Today

Comedian Bill Maher blasted former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., as a 'f--king creep' during a 'Real Time' takedown, saying he 'never liked' the disgraced Democrat who is facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment from five different women. Maher highlighted other 'open secrets' involving figures like Harvey Weinstein and Bill Cosby, criticizing how long it takes for such allegations to come to light.

Why it matters

The allegations against Swalwell have led to his suspension of his campaign for California governor and resignation from Congress. The Department of Justice, as well as district attorneys in Los Angeles and New York, are now investigating the multiple claims against the former congressman.

The details

During the 'Real Time' episode, Maher said he 'never liked' Swalwell and always thought he was a 'f--king creep,' despite the fact that 'so many Democrats stood by him.' Maher also called out Republicans for appearing to claim moral superiority on the issue of misconduct allegations, citing the case of E. Jean Carroll's accusations against former President Donald Trump.

  • On April 17, 2026, Bill Maher made the comments about Swalwell during an episode of 'Real Time'.

The players

Bill Maher

A comedian who hosts the political talk show 'Real Time with Bill Maher'.

Eric Swalwell

A former U.S. Representative from California who is facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment from five different women, leading to the suspension of his campaign for California governor and his resignation from Congress.

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What they’re saying

“I've got to say, we had him on a couple of times. Ask my staff, I never liked him. I've always thought this guy was a f--king creep. I never liked him and, yet, so many Democrats stood by him, and now that we're finding out that it was such an open secret.”

— Bill Maher, Comedian and Host of 'Real Time with Bill Maher'

What’s next

The Department of Justice, as well as district attorneys in Los Angeles and New York, are investigating the multiple allegations against Eric Swalwell.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges around addressing allegations of sexual misconduct, especially when they involve prominent public figures. It raises questions about how long it can take for such 'open secrets' to come to light and the role that political affiliations may play in how quickly allegations are addressed.