Supporters Urge Rep. Eric Swalwell to Drop California Governor Race Amid Misconduct Allegations

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a leading Democratic candidate in the California gubernatorial race, is facing calls from prominent party leaders and former supporters to withdraw from the contest following allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. The reports, published on April 10, 2026, involve claims from four women.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported that a former staffer accused the congressman of sexually assaulting her on two separate occasions, once in 2019 and again in 2024. According to the report, the 2024 incident occurred following a charity gala. The woman told the newspaper that she was too intoxicated to consent to sex in both instances.

The San Francisco Chronicle stated it reviewed text messages sent by the woman to a friend regarding the 2024 incident, spoke with individuals she had confided in, and examined medical records indicating she subsequently sought STD and pregnancy testing.

Additional allegations were reported by CNN, which detailed claims from three other women. These women alleged that Swalwell engaged in inappropriate behavior, which included sending them nude photographs and unsolicited explicit messages.

Political Fallout and Withdrawn Support

The allegations have led to a rapid loss of support for the congressman’s campaign. Several high-profile Democrats and organizations withdrew their endorsements on April 10, 2026.

• U.S. Senator Adam Schiff withdrew his support for the campaign.
• Multiple powerful labor unions dropped their endorsements.
• Democratic House leaders Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar issued a joint statement calling for Swalwell to end his bid for governor and for a swift investigation into the claims.

Following the incredibly disturbing sexual assault accusations against Congressman Eric Swalwell, we call for a swift investigation into these incidents and for the Congressman to immediately end his campaign to be California’s next Governor. This is unacceptable of anyone — certainly not an elected official — and must be taken seriously.

Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had not endorsed a candidate in the race, stated that the allegations must be investigated. She noted that such a process is best done outside of a gubernatorial campaign.

Outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom described the allegations from multiple sources as deeply troubling and stated they must be taken seriously. Rusty Hicks, the chair of the California Democratic Party, stated that any person engaged in misconduct must be held responsible.

Swalwell’s Response

Rep. Eric Swalwell has denied all allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. In a statement to NBCLA, he asserted that he has always protected women during his nearly 20 years of public service as a prosecutor and congressman.

On April 11, 2026, Swalwell posted a message to his X account claiming the allegations are flat false and stating that he will fight them. He suggested that the claims surfaced because he is currently the front-runner in the gubernatorial race.

Swalwell stated he would defend himself with facts and would bring legal action where necessary.

The turmoil comes at a critical point in the election cycle, as the June 2 election approaches. Voters are expected to receive mail ballots in less than a month.