Eric Swalwell suspends campaign for Governor amid scandals

April 12, 2026 April 13, 2026

By Easton Martin | April 12, 2026

Representative Eric Swalwell announced the suspension of his campaign for California governor on Sunday. This decision follows a series of sexual assault and misconduct allegations reported by major news outlets. Swalwell was a prominent candidate in the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom before several women came forward with accusations.

I am suspending my campaign for Governor.

To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past.

I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that’s my fight, not a campaign’s.
— Eric Swalwell (@ericswalwell) April 13, 2026

Reports from the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN detailed allegations from at least four women. One former staff member alleged that she was the victim of non-consensual encounters while working for the congressman. Swalwell has denied these claims and characterized them as false. He released a statement on social media to address the situation directly. In his post, he apologized to his family and supporters for past mistakes in judgment. He noted that he must focus on his own legal fight rather than a political campaign. It is worth noting that footage has also leaked of Swalwell appearing to forcibly kiss an alleged sex worker.

The response from the Democratic establishment was immediate and widespread. Leading figures such as Senator Adam Schiff and Representative Nancy Pelosi have withdrawn their endorsements. Powerful labor groups including the California Teachers Association also moved to rescind their support. Some colleagues in the House of Representatives have called for him to resign from his seat in Congress entirely.

Law enforcement agencies in New York and California are currently reviewing the allegations. The Manhattan District Attorney and the Alameda County District Attorney have both confirmed they are looking into the reports. Additionally, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has requested an ethics investigation into the matter.

Swalwell has served in Congress since 2013 and gained national recognition for his roles in high-profile committee investigations. Despite his withdrawal from the race, his name will remain on the June primary ballot because the deadline for removal has already passed.

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