Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, a leading contender for California governor, staunchly denied sexual assault allegations from a former staffer as calls mounted for him to suspend his campaign.
“These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They’re absolutely false,” Swalwell said in a video posted online late Friday. “They did not happen. They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.”
The congressman went on to acknowledge his past mistakes and admitted that he’s not “a saint,” but maintained that these lapses in judgment are not only in the past but also private.
“I have certainly made mistakes in judgment in my past. But those mistakes are between me and my wife and to her I apologize deeply for putting her in this position,” he said. “I also apologize to you if, in any way, you have doubted your support for me. But I think you know who I am.”
Swalwell said the allegations “come on the eve of an election where I have been the frontrunner candidate,” adding that “for nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women.”
Earlier Friday, the San Francisco Chronicle published the account of a woman who said she was working for Swalwell when he sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions. She said that Swalwell was her boss at the time, and that she was too intoxicated to consent to their sexual encounters, the first of which was in 2019 and the next in 2024.
Another three women came forward following the report, each of them telling CNN that Swalwell sent them explicit messages or nude pictures.
In a joint statement, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar demanded that Swalwell exit the race for governor of California.
“This is unacceptable of anyone — certainly not an elected official — and must be taken seriously,” the Democratic leaders said.
“We commend the courageous women for sharing their experiences,” they continued. “In this and all circumstances, we must ensure that those who come forward with allegations of sexual assault are heard and respected. All perpetrators of sexual assault and harassment must be held accountable.”
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi echoed the sentiment, calling for “full transparency and accountability” by way of a proper investigation.
She added: “The young woman who has made serious allegations against Congressman Swalwell must be respected and heard,”