Former Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) has vehemently denied sexual assault allegations from five women, including two rape claims, calling them a 'political hit job,' as probes begin in multiple jurisdictions following his resignation from Congress and withdrawal from California's gubernatorial race.
In the latest developments in the Eric Swalwell sexual misconduct scandal—which previously saw accusations from four women, senior staff resignations, and the suspension of his gubernatorial campaign—Swalwell submitted his resignation from Congress on April 14, 2026, days after dropping out of the race on Sunday. The resignation follows public claims from five women of misconduct, including unwanted advances, lewd Snapchat messages, and two rape allegations, as reported by NPR and CNN.
Model Lonna Drewes alleged Tuesday at a Los Angeles press conference that Swalwell drugged and raped her in a West Hollywood hotel in 2018, choking her unconscious after one glass of wine. Separately, a former staffer claimed Swalwell assaulted her twice—once in 2019 and again in 2024—while she was too intoxicated to consent.
Swalwell denies all claims as 'flat false' and a 'calculated and transparent political hit job,' per his attorney and video statements. While admitting to 'mistakes in judgment' he takes responsibility for, he vows to fight the accusations.
Investigations are advancing: The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is probing Drewes' claim (CBS News); Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is reviewing allegations in New York City; and U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro stated her office is examining related tips, warning of potential decades in prison if rapes are proven (The Daily Wire).
