A former staffer has accused California Congressman Eric Swalwell of sexual assault, according to a report published by the San Francisco Chronicle. The allegations emerge as Swalwell campaigns for the state's governorship.
The accuser, a woman who previously worked for the congressman, claims she had sexual encounters with Swalwell during her employment. She alleges he sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions when she was too intoxicated to provide consent.
In response to the report, Swalwell issued a statement on Friday, calling the allegations "false" and threatening legal action. "For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women," he stated.
The accusations follow recent social media speculation about Swalwell's alleged misconduct toward staff members. The congressman canceled a scheduled town hall event in Palm Desert on Thursday, citing illness as the reason.
When contacted for additional comment, Swalwell's representatives had not responded by the time of publication.