US House of Representative member, Eric Swalwell announced the suspension of his campaign for California governor on Sunday following a wave of sexual misconduct allegations.

 

 

The withdrawal follows reports published by CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle detailing accusations from several women, including a former staffer who alleged Democrat, Swalwell raped her in 2024. While Swalwell has strongly denied the claims, describing them as “serious, false allegations,” his campaign faced an immediate collapse as high-profile supporters withdrew their endorsements and staffers resigned.

 

 

 

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has opened an investigation into the reported New York City incident, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office is evaluating claims of misconduct alleged to have occurred in 2019. Beyond the assault allegation, three other women accused the congressman of sending unsolicited explicit messages and photos. In his statement on X, Swalwell apologized for “mistakes in judgment” in his past but maintained his innocence regarding the criminal allegations, stating he would fight them outside the context of a political campaign.

 

 

 

The exit significantly shifts the landscape for the June 2 nonpartisan primary. The field remains crowded with prominent Democrats like Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, and Xavier Becerra, alongside Republican contenders Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan issued a sharp rebuke following the news, stating that Swalwell’s exit was an “overdue acknowledgment” and that he represented “the worst of politics.”

 

 

 

Despite ending his gubernatorial bid, Swalwell faces mounting pressure to resign from his seat in the U.S. House. A group of more than 50 former staffers released a letter calling for his immediate resignation and expressing solidarity with the accusers.

 

 

 

Within the Democratic party, figures such as Representative Pramila Jayapal have signaled that such behavior should not be tolerated. It remains unclear if Swalwell intends to serve out the remainder of his term, which expires in January.