Eric Swalwell has denied sexual assault allegations from a former staffer, as the claims trigger political fallout and legal threats during his gubernatorial campaign.
Eric Swalwell has denied allegations of sexual assault made by a former staffer, who claims he took advantage of her over several years, including an alleged incident in 2024. The woman said she told him “no” and tried to resist. Swalwell rejected the claims, calling them “false, outrageous rumor” and insisting, “There has never been an allegation and there has never been a settlement.”
The accusations have intensified political pressure as his gubernatorial bid faces scrutiny, with reports of campaign staff resignations and criticism from rivals. His legal team has warned accusers of possible defamation action, stating, “Mr. Swalwell takes these allegations seriously, both because they are false and because they are being injected into the gubernatorial race.”
The controversy has fueled divisions among Democrats, with some calling the allegations troubling while others question their timing. Analysts say the situation could significantly impact the race, as Swalwell works to defend himself against claims that he maintains are untrue.