The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office in New York has launched an investigation into a sexual assault allegation against Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., NBC News confirmed Saturday.
Allegations Surface Against Swalwell
Multiple women have come forward in recent days alleging that Swalwell sexually assaulted or harassed them while serving in Congress, including one woman who alleges an assault occurred in New York. Swalwell has denied the allegations.
On Friday, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that one woman alleged she had sexual encounters with Swalwell when he was her boss and that he twice sexually assaulted her when she was too intoxicated to consent. One of these alleged incidents took place in New York in 2024.
CNN reported on additional allegations from three other women, including one who said Swalwell kissed her without her consent in public, and two others who said he sent them unsolicited photos or videos of his penis. NBC News has not independently corroborated these stories.
Political Fallout
The allegations come weeks before California voters begin voting in the state’s primary for governor, where Swalwell has been a leading Democratic candidate. Other candidates include former Rep. Katie Porter, businessman Tom Steyer, and former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Several high-profile figures and groups have rescinded their endorsements of Swalwell, including the California Federation of Labor Unions and the California chapter of the Service Employees International Union.
Democratic leaders in the House, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, D-Mass., and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., called the allegations “disturbing” and urged Swalwell to “immediately complete his campaign to be California’s next Governor.”
Swalwell’s senior staff released a statement Saturday saying they are “horrified” by the allegations and “stand with our former colleague, and the other women who have come forward.” They emphasized their commitment to fulfilling obligations to constituents even as they support those who have made allegations.
Two Republican congresswomen have vowed to seek punishment against Swalwell. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., plans to force a floor vote on a resolution to censure Swalwell. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., plans to introduce a resolution to expel Swalwell from Congress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rep. Eric Swalwell’s response to the allegations?
Swalwell denied the allegations in a video posted to X, stating, “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.”
What is the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office doing?
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has launched an investigation into a sexual assault allegation against Rep. Eric Swalwell. They are urging anyone with information to contact their Special Victims Division at 212-335-9373.
What impact could this have on Swalwell’s campaign for governor?
The allegations and subsequent loss of endorsements could significantly impact Swalwell’s campaign for governor. Democratic leaders have already called for him to end his campaign, and further developments could alter the race’s trajectory.
How will these allegations affect the upcoming California gubernatorial primary?
