Calls grow for Swalwell to drop out of gubernatorial race after sexual assault allegations

A former member of Swalwell's staff told the San Francisco Chronicle that the congressman sexually assaulted her.

Published: April 10, 2026 11:22pm

(The Center Square) -

Calls are growing for Democrat U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell to quit the California gubernatorial race following allegations of sex abuse.

A former member of Swalwell's staff told the San Francisco Chronicle that the congressman sexually assaulted her.

CNN reported Friday on that member and three more women who accused Swalwell of making sexual advances and sending explicit photos.

Swalwell, who is among the top three most popular Democrats running for governor according to a recent University of California, Berkeley poll, called the allegations false in a statement.

“For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women," Swalwell said. "I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action. My focus in the coming days is to be with my wife and children and defend our decades of service against these lies."

According to media reports, multiple members of Swalwell's staff resigned after Friday's news of the allegations.

Tom Steyer, the billionaire who is among the leading Democratic gubernatorial candidates, commended the former staffer for coming forward in a statement on X. “Speaking out is never easy, and her account must be taken seriously."

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, one of the two leading Republicans running for governor, called on Swalwell to resign not only from the race but Congress.

The Facts Inside Our Reporter's Notebook

Unlock unlimited access

  • No Ads Within Stories
  • No Autoplay Videos
  • VIP access to exclusive Just the News newsmaker events hosted by John Solomon and his team.
  • Support the investigative reporting and honest news presentation you've come to enjoy from Just the News.
  • Just the News Spotlight

    Support Just the News