A second woman has approach forward with allegations of sexual assault against Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Dublin), who announced his resignation from Congress on Monday amid mounting accusations of sexual misconduct.
New Allegations Surface
Lonna Drewes publicly described allegations of rape at a news conference Tuesday, stating she was drugged and sexually assaulted by Swalwell in 2018 while working as a model in Beverly Hills. Drewes stated she met Swalwell on three occasions while developing a fashion software company and exploring a potential political career.
According to Drewes, Swalwell allegedly drugged her wine during their third meeting, which was intended as a stop before a political event to retrieve paperwork. She reported feeling incapacitated after having only one drink. “He raped me and he choked me and while he was choking me I lost consciousness and I thought I died,” she said. “I did not consent to any sexual activity.”
Legal Response and Previous Allegations
Swalwell’s attorney, Elias Dabaie, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Swalwell has previously denied allegations against him, while acknowledging “mistakes.” His team had previously threatened legal action against individuals making claims against him, as confirmed by Dabaie.
These new allegations follow reports from Friday in the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN, where other women accused Swalwell of sexual assault and misconduct. One woman told CNN she met Swalwell for drinks and later found herself in his hotel room with no memory of how she arrived there. Another woman, a former staff member, alleged Swalwell forced himself on her while she was intoxicated.
Political Fallout and Investigations
Swalwell’s resignation came after the House Ethics Committee launched an investigation into the allegations and faced bipartisan calls for his expulsion. Gov. Gavin Newsom has called a special election for Swalwell’s Alameda County seat on June 16, with a potential second election on August 18 if no candidate secures a majority vote. The regularly scheduled primary election is June 2, and the general election is November 3.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Lonna Drewes allege happened in 2018?
Lonna Drewes alleges that Eric Swalwell drugged and raped her in his hotel room in Beverly Hills in 2018 after they had met to discuss paperwork related to a political event.
How did Swalwell respond to the allegations?
Swalwell has previously denied allegations against him, while acknowledging undefined “mistakes.” His attorney, Elias Dabaie, did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the latest allegations.
What is the status of the seat formerly held by Eric Swalwell?
Gov. Gavin Newsom has called a special election for Swalwell’s Alameda County seat on June 16, with a possible second election on August 18. A regularly scheduled primary election will be held on June 2, and the general election on November 3.
What impact will these allegations have on the upcoming elections and the broader political landscape?