Pressure Mounts on Eric Swalwell to Exit California Governor’s Race Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations.

Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell is facing growing calls to withdraw from the California governor’s race after multiple sexual misconduct allegations surfaced from former staff members. Swalwell has firmly denied all accusations, calling them “false” and saying he will defend himself with “facts.”

The controversy began when a former staffer told the San Francisco Chronicle that shortly after joining his district office, Swalwell allegedly made inappropriate sexual comments and sent explicit messages. She also claimed that in 2019 she woke up in his hotel room with limited memory of the previous night and later experienced signs of sexual trauma. Her account was reportedly supported by text messages and statements from her former boyfriend.

Following this, CNN reported additional allegations from four other women who previously worked with him, also describing inappropriate behavior. Swalwell’s legal team had reportedly sent cease-and-desist letters to some of the accusers shortly before the stories were published.

In response, Swalwell released a statement denying wrongdoing and said his focus is on his family and defending his reputation. “I will defend myself with the facts,” he said, while also acknowledging past personal mistakes in judgment but insisting they do not reflect the allegations.

The political fallout was swift. Several prominent Democrats, including Adam Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, urged him to step aside, suggesting the matter requires investigation outside the campaign. California labor groups, including the California Teachers Association, also withdrew endorsements.

Outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom said the allegations were “deeply troubling” and should be taken seriously.

The developments come at a critical moment in California’s crowded governor’s race. With a large field of Democratic candidates splitting the vote, early polls had placed Swalwell among the frontrunners. The state’s top-two primary system means the leading candidates—regardless of party—advance to the general election in November, making the outcome of the June primary especially significant.