Eric Swalwell Vigorously Denies Sexual Assault Claims from Former Staffer, Stays in California Governor’s Race Amid Backlash

By Perplexity News Staff | April 11, 2026

SAN FRANCISCO – California Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell categorically denied explosive sexual assault allegations leveled by a former staffer, vowing to fight the claims while refusing to exit the increasingly crowded race for governor.

The accusations, first detailed in a San Francisco Chronicle report published Friday, have triggered a swift political firestorm, with prominent Democrats, labor unions and fellow candidates withdrawing support and demanding Swalwell step aside.[1][5]

Former Staffer’s Detailed Allegations

The unnamed former staffer, who worked in Swalwell’s East Bay district office starting in 2019 at age 21, alleged two non-consensual sexual encounters with the congressman.[1][5] According to her account in the Chronicle, the incidents occurred when she was “severely intoxicated” and unable to consent – once in 2019 after drinks following a donor meeting, and again in 2024 at a charity event.[1][5]

She described waking up naked in a hotel bed with Swalwell after the first encounter, believing they had sex, and later pushing him away while saying “No” during the second.[5] The woman also claimed Swalwell sent her unsolicited images of his genitals via Snapchat, pressured her for nude photos in return, exposed himself in a car, and requested oral sex – incidents she said impacted her professional treatment.[1][3][5]

CNN reported speaking to three other women who alleged various sexual misconduct by Swalwell, including unsolicited explicit messages or nude photos.[3] Progressive influencers on TikTok and X had circulated vague misconduct rumors for weeks prior.[1][4]

Swalwell’s Fierce Denial and Legal Response

In a video statement, Swalwell declared the allegations “flat false” and “absolutely false,” insisting they “did not happen” and “have never happened.”[1] He vowed to “fight them with everything that I have,” while acknowledging he is not “perfect” or “a saint,” apologizing to his wife for past “mistakes.”[1]

“These allegations of sexual assault are flat false, they’re absolutely false. They did not happen. They have never happened. And I will fight them with everything that I have.”
– Rep. Eric Swalwell[1]

Swalwell’s campaign labeled the claims politically motivated, timed “on the eve of an election against the frontrunner.”[4] His attorney sent cease-and-desist letters Thursday and confirmed no prior NDAs, settlements or formal complaints existed.[3][4] Swalwell plans to spend the weekend with family before updating supporters.[1]

Wave of Democratic Condemnation

The backlash was immediate and severe. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the allegations “indefensible.”[3] Senators Adam Schiff and Ruben Gallego withdrew endorsements, as did Swalwell’s campaign co-chairs.[2]

Governor’s race rivals piled on: former Rep. Katie Porter, investor Tom Steyer, former State Controller Betty Yee, San José Mayor Matt Mahan, and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond urged him to quit.[1][2] California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks deemed them “deeply disturbing,” hinting non-viable candidates should exit.[4]

Labor groups reacted swiftly. The California Teachers Association suspended support, stating: “The allegations are incredibly disturbing and unacceptable.” SEIU California followed suit.[2][3][4]

Key Figures Calling for Swalwell to Drop Out

Figure/Organization	Action
Nancy Pelosi	Slams as “indefensible”[3]
Adam Schiff, Ruben Gallego	Withdraw endorsements[2]
Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, et al.	Call to end campaign[1][2]
California Teachers Association	Suspends support[2][4]
SEIU California	Rescinds backing[2][4]

Campaign in Freefall?

Politico described Swalwell’s campaign as “imploding,” once seen as a leading contender in the 2026 race.[4] Earlier this week, he denied inappropriate behavior with staffers at a Sacramento town hall.[1]

The timing amplifies suspicions of orchestration, as noted by Swalwell’s team, amid a fragmented Democratic field.[4] No criminal charges have been filed, and investigations remain unclear.[3]

Broader Context of Political Scandals

Swalwell, a former prosecutor representing California’s 14th District since 2013, has faced prior scrutiny, including a 2020 House Ethics Committee probe over ties to a suspected Chinese spy – from which he was cleared.[4] His gubernatorial bid positioned him as a progressive fighter against Trump-era Republicans.

As the allegations unfold, Swalwell’s political future hangs in balance. Rivals like Porter and Thurmond gain ground, while voters grapple with unproven but damaging claims ahead of the primary.

Swalwell’s office did not immediately respond to additional requests for comment beyond the video statement. The former staffer has not publicly identified herself beyond Chronicle interviews.[1][5]

This story is developing. Check back for updates.