(KMJ) Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has abruptly suspended his campaign for California Governor after sweeping allegations of sexual assault.
Swalwell announced Sunday he was stepping aside just days after reports detailed allegations of sexual assault made by a former staffer. The claims were first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and later by CNN. Swalwell has denied the allegations but said in a post on social media that while he intends to fight them, “that’s my fight, not a campaign’s.”
Former staffer says Rep. Eric Swalwell raped her
With early mail ballots set to go out in May ahead of the June primary, Swalwell’s exit has sparked a scramble among rivals to secure his supporters. The Democrat was considered one of the best‑known figures in a wide‑open field with no clear front‑runner.
Democratic Congresswoman Katie Porter quickly urged her party to unite behind her candidacy. Billionaire activist Tom Steyer announced the endorsement of Congressman Jared Huffman, whose district borders Swalwell’s political base in Northern California. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa rolled out a new campaign ad focused on lowering gas and grocery prices, a major concern for voters facing California’s high cost of living.
The primary ballot features more than 50 candidates, including seven prominent Democrats and two leading Republicans. Under California’s top‑two system, only the two highest vote‑getters advance to November, regardless of party — raising fears among Democrats that a splintered field could leave them locked out of the general election.
Political observers say Swalwell’s supporters are now likely to scatter.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has not endorsed a candidate yet.
Swalwell — a former House impeachment manager during Donald Trump’s first presidency — had been gaining momentum before the allegations surfaced. Though he has apologized to his family for what he called past mistakes in judgment, he continues to deny wrongdoing.
Even though his campaign is suspended, Eric Swalwell’s name will remain on the ballot — adding yet another layer of uncertainty to an already unpredictable race to replace term‑limited Governor Gavin Newsom.
The California primary is June 2nd.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Florida) is calling for Swalwell’s expulsion from the House. Swalwell faces calls for EXPULSION after ‘UNACCEPTABLE’ sexual assault allegation
