Multiple women have accused Representative Eric Swalwell of various forms of sexual misconduct, including assault and sending unsolicited explicit messages, spanning several years. Swalwell has vehemently denied all allegations, characterizing them as false and politically motivated attacks.
Allegations of Assault and Non-Consensual Contact
One former staffer alleged that Swalwell raped her in 2024 after she had stopped working for him. She stated that the incident occurred while she was heavily intoxicated, and that he did not stop when she resisted.
- Timeline: The accuser claimed this was the second instance of non-consensual sexual contact, the first having occurred in 2019 after a night of heavy drinking.
- Evidence: The accuser provided medical records related to STD and pregnancy testing following the alleged assault. Furthermore, CNN reviewed text messages where she described the alleged assault to friends at the time.
Another woman described a similar pattern of misconduct, alleging that after becoming heavily intoxicated at a bar in his hotel room, she woke up with him and experienced non-consensual contact.
Pattern of Online and Professional Misconduct
Beyond physical allegations, several women reported receiving unsolicited explicit messages and nude photos from Swalwell after connecting with him online, often through platforms like Twitter and Snapchat.
- Online Interactions: One social media creator, Ally Sammarco, initially connected with Swalwell over political discussions. She alleged that he subsequently sent her unsolicited nude photos and explicit messages.
- Flirtatious Messaging: Another accuser described a pattern where Swalwell would show close interest in her life when she was young and professionally developing, followed by increasingly sexual messaging. These exchanges often escalated to alleged unwanted physical touch or sexual assault, frequently linked to episodes of heavy drinking.
- Scope: The misconduct allegations span multiple women and multiple years, with accusers stating they initially felt isolated in their experiences.
Swalwell's Defense and Counter-Arguments
Rep. Swalwell has strongly refuted all claims, issuing a statement to CNN that the allegations are "false and come on the eve of an election against the front-runner for governor." His legal counsel also sent cease-and-desist letters to some of the accusers, calling their accounts "false" and warning of potential legal action.
- Denial of Conduct: Swalwell's attorney also issued a letter denying that he has ever engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with any woman or staff member.
- Corroboration of Claims: CNN reported finding corroboration for key elements of the accusers' claims, including text messages and accounts from friends and family members supporting the timeline of the alleged incidents.
- Staff Reaction: One member of Swalwell’s staff reportedly quit immediately after receiving CNN’s detailed list of questions regarding the allegations.
