Ex-Staff Member Alleges Rep. Eric Swalwell Sexually Assaulted Her While Intoxicated
A former aide to Rep. Eric Swalwell, a prominent Democratic candidate for California governor, has come forward with serious allegations, claiming he sexually assaulted her on two occasions while she was too intoxicated to give consent. The woman, who worked for Swalwell from 2019 to 2021, detailed her experiences in an interview with a local publication.
While the woman’s attorney declined to comment, the veracity of her claims remains unverified by independent sources. However, reports surfaced later indicating that multiple women have made similar allegations against Swalwell, including one account that aligns closely with the former aide's story.
In a separate report, it was revealed that another woman accused Swalwell of kissing her without consent after a night of heavy drinking, leading to her finding herself in his hotel room without recollection of how she arrived there. A third individual, Ally Sammarco, alleged that Swalwell sent her unsolicited explicit images, while a fourth claimed he sent her videos of a similar nature.
Swalwell has not responded directly to these allegations through his campaign or legal representatives. However, in a video posted on social media, he vehemently denied the accusations, stating, "These allegations of sexual assault are flat false." He expressed his intent to fight back against the claims and acknowledged past mistakes in judgment but insisted they were personal matters between him and his wife.
In his statements to the media, Swalwell emphasized that the timing of these allegations—just weeks before an election—raises questions about their authenticity. He stated, “I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action,” while also expressing a desire to focus on his family during this tumultuous time.
The former aide recounted an incident from September 2019 when Swalwell invited her out for drinks. She reported becoming so intoxicated that she could not remember the events of the night, only waking up naked in his hotel bed with physical evidence of intercourse. Another encounter occurred in April 2024 after a charity gala, where she again became heavily inebriated and recalled telling Swalwell to stop during an intimate moment.
Text messages reviewed by the publication indicated she communicated with a friend about the incident shortly afterward, confirming her discomfort and distress. Additionally, medical records showed she sought tests for pregnancy and STDs following these encounters.
As rumors circulated on social media regarding potential misconduct allegations against Swalwell, he was questioned by reporters about any inappropriate relations with staff members. He firmly denied such claims. In anticipation of negative press, his campaign issued a preemptive denial of any wrongdoing.
Following the publication of these allegations, several Democratic leaders withdrew their support for Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign. Notably, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi suggested he should step down from the race to allow for a thorough investigation into the claims. Other Democratic representatives echoed this sentiment, calling for accountability and transparency.
Swalwell’s campaign ads were subsequently deactivated across social media platforms as the fallout from these allegations continued. The California primary is set for June 2, with early voting beginning May 4.
Swalwell has served in Congress since 2013 and previously made an unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 2020. Known for his vocal opposition to former President Trump, he has faced scrutiny over various controversies throughout his political career.
As Congress reconvenes next week, Swalwell may face a censure vote related to these allegations. A Republican representative has indicated plans to introduce a resolution aimed at censuring him for alleged misconduct involving female staff members.
