In a dramatic turn of events, U.S. Congressman Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. The Democratic candidate, once considered a leading contender, announced his withdrawal just weeks before the primary election.
Swalwell's decision comes after four women came forward with accusations ranging from sexual harassment to rape. The allegations first surfaced in the San Francisco Chronicle, where a former staff member detailed inappropriate behavior and a disturbing incident in 2019. Additional claims were later reported by CNN, involving three other women who had worked for the congressman.
In a statement posted on social media, Swalwell said: "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."
The accusations prompted immediate political fallout. Prominent Democratic leaders, including Senator Adam Schiff and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, withdrew their support for Swalwell's gubernatorial bid. His legal team had reportedly sent cease-and-desist letters to two accusers just before the allegations became public.
Swalwell vehemently denied the claims, stating: "For nearly 20 years, I have served the public - as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women. 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."
The departure creates significant uncertainty in California's gubernatorial race, which features at least ten candidates competing to replace outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom. With Swalwell's exit, the Democratic field becomes more fragmented, potentially benefiting Republican candidates who typically struggle in the heavily Democratic state.
The primary election, scheduled for June 2, will determine which two candidates advance to the November general election, regardless of party affiliation. Voters will begin receiving mail-in ballots in the coming weeks, making Swalwell's withdrawal particularly impactful at this stage of the campaign.