Ex-staffer says Rep. Eric Swalwell sexually assaulted her
San Francisco Chronicle • • nation
Key Points:
- A former staffer accused Rep. Eric Swalwell, a leading California governor candidate, of multiple sexual encounters and two instances of sexual assault when she was too intoxicated to consent, allegations Swalwell denies as politically motivated.
- The woman detailed a pattern of inappropriate behavior beginning in 2019, including explicit Snapchat messages, unwanted sexual advances, and two incidents where she alleges Swalwell took advantage of her intoxicated state, one in 2019 and another in 2024.
- Swalwell's attorney sent a cease-and-desist letter to the woman, calling her claims false and threatening legal action, while her attorney affirmed the accuracy of her statements and refusal to retract them.
- The woman said she feared professional repercussions and disbelief, which kept her silent for years, and despite the alleged assaults, maintained a complicated relationship with Swalwell due to career concerns.
- Swalwell, who has strong political endorsements and is known for his role in Trump impeachment investigations, has publicly denied any inappropriate conduct, framing the allegations as politically timed attacks ahead of the primary election.
