Manhattan DA Launches Inquiry into Swalwell's Sexual Assault Claims

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has initiated an investigation into sexual assault allegations against Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, confirmed sources on Saturday.

In a rapid succession of events, several women have alleged that Swalwell engaged in sexual misconduct during his tenure in Congress. One woman claims he assaulted her in New York, while others have reported harassment. Swalwell has categorically denied these allegations.

A spokesperson for the DA's office has encouraged “survivors and anyone with knowledge of these allegations to reach out to our Special Victims Division at 212-335-9373. Our trained professionals are prepared to assist in a trauma-informed, survivor-centered manner.”

Reports surfaced Friday from the San Francisco Chronicle detailing one woman's account of sexual encounters with Swalwell when he was her supervisor. She alleges that he assaulted her twice while she was intoxicated, with one incident occurring in New York in 2024.

Later that day, additional allegations emerged from three more women, as reported by CNN. These included claims of non-consensual kissing and unsolicited explicit images sent by Swalwell.

Ally Sammarco, one of the women mentioned in CNN's report, recounted her experience with Swalwell when she was 24 and seeking employment on Capitol Hill. She described an invitation to his office under the pretense of meeting his team, only to find him alone. Their communication began on Snapchat, evolving from casual to flirtatious, culminating in unsolicited explicit photos from him.

Sammarco expressed her feelings of isolation regarding her experience, stating, “I thought I was the only one that had this experience with him. These people have authority, and they're abusing it ... I want to validate what these women are saying.”

Swalwell's office has not commented on the ongoing investigation or Sammarco's allegations. He has publicly denied all claims of misconduct, asserting in a video posted to X that the allegations are “flat false” and vowing to fight them vigorously.

The timing of these revelations is critical, as California voters prepare for the gubernatorial primary where Swalwell is a prominent candidate among a competitive field that includes former Rep. Katie Porter and businessman Tom Steyer.

In light of the allegations, several organizations have rescinded their endorsements of Swalwell, including the California Federation of Labor Unions and the California chapter of the Service Employees International Union.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 have expressed their concern over the allegations, labeling them “disturbing” and urging Swalwell to withdraw from the gubernatorial race immediately.

Swalwell’s senior staff released a statement expressing horror at the allegations and reaffirming their support for their former colleague and the women who have come forward. They emphasized their commitment to fulfilling their obligations to constituents while navigating this challenging situation.

On Saturday, two Republican congresswomen announced plans to pursue disciplinary action against Swalwell. Rep. Lauren Boebert intends to introduce a resolution for censure, while Rep. Anna Paulina Luna aims to propose a resolution for his expulsion from Congress.

California Democrats Reps. Jared Huffman and Sam Liccardo have also called for Swalwell’s resignation. Liccardo stated that survivors deserve to be heard without intimidation, urging Swalwell to resign and face a thorough investigation.

Huffman echoed similar sentiments, indicating his support for expulsion if Swalwell does not step down.