Eric Swalwell, a Democratic congressman from California and once a leading contender in the state's gubernatorial race, suspended his campaign Sunday following a cascade of sexual misconduct allegations and a federal investigation into his household employment practices.
In a statement posted on X, Swalwell said: "I am suspending my campaign for Governor. To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I've made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made - but that's my fight, not a campaign." The announcement marked a rapid reversal for a candidate who had been viewed as a frontrunner in the 2026 race.
The decision came after multiple allegations surfaced over the weekend. According to reporting by the San Francisco Chronicle, a former staff member accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her twice, alleging the incidents occurred in 2019 and again in 2024 while she was intoxicated. Additional reporting by CNN cited three other women who accused the congressman of sending unsolicited explicit messages and nude images.
The allegations have moved beyond political controversy into potential legal exposure. The Manhattan District Attorney's office confirmed it has opened an investigation into the claims, elevating the matter into a criminal inquiry. Swalwell has categorically denied the accusations, stating: "These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They are absolutely false. They did not happen. They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have."
At the same time, a separate federal probe is examining whether Swalwell and his wife violated immigration laws. The Department of Homeland Security is investigating claims that the couple employed a Brazilian national, Amanda Barbosa, after her J-1 visa expired in December 2022. Reports indicate she continued working as a live-in nanny through 2023 and 2024.
According to The Guardian, Barbosa allegedly received approximately $47,000 in campaign funds in 2022, and Swalwell reportedly began steps to sponsor her for permanent residency. The investigation raises potential legal and ethical questions about campaign finance use and employment authorization compliance.
Political fallout has been swift. Adam Schiff, a longtime ally, withdrew his endorsement, signaling growing unease within Democratic ranks. Other lawmakers have publicly condemned the allegations, with Ro Khanna stating the reported conduct was "sick and disgusting" and adding that "there need to be consequences."
Republican lawmakers have also seized on the controversy. Anna Paulina Luna indicated she may force a House vote on Swalwell's expulsion as early as this week, while additional members from both parties have expressed support for further scrutiny.
Swalwell has framed the timing of the allegations as politically motivated. He said they emerged on the "eve of an election where I have been the front-runner candidate for governor in California," suggesting a coordinated effort to derail his campaign. His legal team has reportedly threatened litigation against at least one accuser.
