Eric Swalwell Halts Governor Campaign Amid Allegations of Sexual Assault and Harassment
Eric Swalwell Suspends California Gubernatorial Campaign Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
California Congressman Eric Swalwell has announced the suspension of his campaign for governor following serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving at least four women. In a statement shared on X on April 12, Swalwell expressed remorse for his past actions and stated, “To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past.”
The decision to withdraw came soon after one of the accusers, Ally Sammarco, publicly shared her story. She stated, “This has not been easy for me or the other women. I have so much respect for them for telling their stories.” Sammarco explained her choice to speak out, emphasizing her intent to support the other women involved and address the issue of power abuse.
According to a CNN investigation that uncovered the allegations, Swalwell is accused of inappropriate behavior, including offering to assist Sammarco with her congressional job search and sending inappropriate messages via Snapchat. Four women have accused Swalwell of varying degrees of misconduct, including sexual harassment and, in one instance, rape.
Prior to his campaign suspension, Swalwell was a leading candidate in the gubernatorial race. However, numerous prominent Democratic leaders called for him to step down amidst growing concern over the allegations. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, along with Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, issued a statement demanding an immediate investigation into the accusations, stating, “This is unacceptable of anyone — certainly not an elected official — and must be taken seriously.”
They commended the women for coming forward and emphasized the importance of respecting those who report such allegations. "All perpetrators of sexual assault and harassment must be held accountable," the statement concluded.
Swalwell’s communications director has been contacted for further comment on the allegations and the campaign suspension.
