Businessman Stephen Cloobeck Ends Relationship with Politician Eric Swalwell Amid Controversy
Cloobeck Withdraws Support for Swalwell Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
LOS ANGELES – Following serious allegations of sexual misconduct, businessman Stephen Cloobeck has withdrawn his support for Rep. Eric Swalwell, who recently announced the suspension of his campaign for California governor. Cloobeck disclosed his decision in an exclusive interview with NBC Los Angeles on Sunday.
The move comes in the wake of accusations from at least four women, including a former aide who alleges that Swalwell sexually assaulted her on two occasions when she was incapacitated. Cloobeck articulated his concerns about Swalwell’s conduct, stating, "You know, I live in the world of integrity, morals, ethics. I want what’s best for California and I am disturbed, and I cannot support Eric Swalwell anymore."
Swalwell, a Democrat among a competitive field of candidates for the governorship, confirmed on Sunday that he would be stepping back from his campaign. While he denied the allegations, he emphasized that his priority is clearing his name rather than continuing his political bid. "To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past,” he stated.
Cloobeck revealed that he provided Swalwell with refuge in his Los Angeles-area home after the allegations were made public on Friday. As of Sunday, Swalwell is no longer residing there. "I was very concerned for his mental health,” Cloobeck commented. “He has left. I have no idea where he went.”
Cloobeck, who previously supported Swalwell and contributed significant funds to his campaign after ending his own gubernatorial bid in November 2025, now finds himself distancing from the once-prominent candidate.
The allegations against Swalwell originally surfaced in a report by the San Francisco Chronicle, where the former aide detailed instances of assault. While NBC News has not verified these claims, they did confirm her identity and her tenure with Swalwell from 2019 to 2021. CNN later supported these reports, indicating that several women have accused Swalwell of misconduct, although NBC News has not independently validated their accounts.
