Powerful California institutions backed Swalwell's rise. Now they're facing questions
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Eric Swalwell, once a rising star in the California governor’s race with backing from influential Sacramento figures and endorsements from state and federal officials, abruptly ended his campaign following explosive sexual assault allegations from a former staffer and other women.
- Swalwell denies all allegations but resigned from Congress and dropped out of the gubernatorial race, triggering scrutiny of Democratic leaders and unions who had supported him despite rumors of inappropriate behavior.
- Key Democratic figures, including Nancy Pelosi and Adam Schiff, expressed shock and betrayal, while some critics argued Swalwell had not been properly vetted before gaining endorsements.
- Swalwell’s campaign had gained momentum with significant financial backing, including from the California Medical Association and political consultants linked to Governor Gavin Newsom, though none have been implicated in knowledge of his alleged misconduct.
- The scandal has led to a broader reckoning within California’s Democratic establishment about candidate vetting and accountability, with some calling the support for Swalwell a misjudgment driven by a desire for a strong anti-Trump candidate.
