The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has launched an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against U.S. Congressman Eric Swalwell. Four women have accused him of serious offenses, including sexual harassment and rape, with at least one alleged incident purportedly occurring in New York City.
Swalwell, who is a prominent candidate in the race for California's governorship, has publicly denied the allegations, asserting that he intends to defend himself with 'facts'.
In a statement, the New York City prosecutor's office emphasized the importance of coming forward, urging any survivors or individuals with knowledge of the allegations to contact their Special Victims Division. The office assured that their specially trained staff are prepared to assist survivors in a trauma-informed manner.
Swalwell, elected in 2012 to represent a district near San Francisco, has not yet responded to requests for comment from the media.
The allegations became public through the San Francisco Chronicle, detailing claims from a former staff member who stated that Swalwell made inappropriate remarks shortly after her hiring in his office. She claimed to have faced sexual advances and was assaulted on two separate occasions, once in 2019 and again in 2024, both instances allegedly occurring when she was intoxicated.
CNN has also reported similar allegations from four women, prompting Swalwell's legal team to issue cease-and-desist letters to some accusers. So far, the claims have raised significant concerns regarding Swalwell's candidacy for governor, leading to the withdrawal of support from high-profile figures in the Democratic Party.
Swalwell emphasized his long career in public service, defending himself as someone who has always supported women. However, the timing of these allegations, occurring just weeks ahead of the California gubernatorial primary elections, leaves his political future uncertain.
