Rep. Eric Swalwell on Friday denied allegations of sexual assault from former staffers, saying he will remain in the California governor's race despite mounting claims of inappropriate behavior.
The Democratic congressman released a video on X and Instagram in which he called the allegations "flat false" and said he would "fight them with everything that I have." The accusations surfaced one day after Swalwell had been leading in primary polls for the governor's race.
"A lot has been said about me today through anonymous allegations," Swalwell said in the video. "And I thought it was important that you see and hear from me directly."
The allegations include a claim from a former staffer who said Swalwell raped her, according to reports. The California congressman questioned the timing and anonymity of the accusations, noting they emerged on the eve of an election in which he had been the frontrunner.
"These allegations of sexual assault are flat false, they're absolutely false," Swalwell said. "They did not happen. They have never happened."
Swalwell acknowledged making "mistakes in judgment" in his past, which he said were between him and his wife. He apologized to her for "putting her in this position."
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative critics have drawn sharp attention to Swalwell's 2018 statements during Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearings, when he called for delaying the vote and used #BelieveWomen language.
On September 18, 2018, Swalwell joined 109 House Democrats in urging the Senate to postpone the Kavanaugh confirmation vote. "I joined 109 of my House colleagues in urging the Senate to #PostponeTheVote on #Kavanaugh, so America can have a thorough investigation of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's story. #BelieveWomen," he posted.
Republicans have noted that Swalwell now questions anonymous allegations and their timing — arguments he explicitly criticized in 2018. "The #Kavanaugh defenders are trying to stand on the process/timing of the allegation and wish to ignore its substance," Swalwell wrote in 2018.
Conservative commentators have also pointed to Swalwell's acknowledgment of "mistakes in judgment" as evidence of some level of wrongdoing, even as he denies the specific allegations. They note his apology to his wife suggests there is truth to some of the claims.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive supporters of Swalwell point to his 20-year record of public service, from City Council to the U.S. House of Representatives, as evidence of his character. They note his background as a prosecutor who has defended victims of sexual assault.
Swalwell emphasized this record in his video statement, noting his work prosecuting sexual assault cases. "That's who I am and have always been," he said.
Some progressive commentators have noted that the allegations remain unproven and that Swalwell has a right to defend himself. They point out that anonymous accusations can be difficult to verify and that the timing of the allegations — just before a primary election — raises questions about motive.
Several Democratic allies have privately expressed support for Swalwell, though many have not made public statements. The congressman said he received supportive messages from friends and supporters.
What the Numbers Show
Swalwell had been leading the Democratic primary field for California governor ahead of the allegations, with polling showing him ahead of several other candidates.
Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) withdrew his endorsement of Swalwell following the allegations. "I have read the San Francisco Chronicle's account and I am deeply distressed by its allegations," Schiff said. "This woman was brave to come forward, and we should take her story seriously."
In 2018, 109 House Democrats joined Swalwell in calling for a postponement of the Kavanaugh vote. The Senate ultimately confirmed Kavanaugh 50-48.
The allegations against Swalwell remain unverified. No criminal charges have been filed, and the congressman has not been accused of any crime.
The Bottom Line
Swalwell's decision to remain in the governor's race sets up a potential test of how voters weigh allegations against an incumbent congressman with a long political record. The contrast between his 2018 stance on Kavanaugh and his current response to allegations against himself has become a focal point for both supporters and critics.
The withdrawal of endorsements, including from Schiff, signals that some Democrats are distancing themselves from Swalwell. However, the extent to which this affects his electoral prospects remains unclear.
The allegations have not been independently verified, and Swalwell has denied them categorically. The story is developing, and further information may emerge as the California primary approaches.