By Gloria Ogbonna
Staff members working both in the congressional office of Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and on his gubernatorial campaign have released a strongly worded letter stating they are “horrified” by recent sexual assault allegations made against the California Democrat.
The letter, first reported by Politico, reflects growing turmoil within Swalwell’s political operation as the accusations gain national attention.
According to Politico, the letter was provided by a senior campaign staffer who was granted anonymity. The unnamed individual reportedly attributed the message to more than a dozen current and former staffers affiliated with Swalwell’s congressional and campaign teams. In the letter, the staffers expressed solidarity with a former colleague who publicly accused the congressman of sexual misconduct, as well as with other women who have since come forward.
The controversy began after a former Swalwell staffer shared allegations with the San Francisco Chronicle, claiming that the congressman sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions and engaged in inappropriate behavior during other encounters.
The woman alleged that on one occasion, after she drove Swalwell home from a donor event, he attempted to kiss her inside her car. Weeks later, during another car ride to a political function, she claimed that Swalwell exposed himself and requested oral sex. According to her account, she complied in a parking lot.
The former staffer further alleged that in September 2019, Swalwell invited her out for drinks. She said she became severely intoxicated and has little memory of what occurred afterward. She stated that she later woke up naked in his hotel bed and believed sexual intercourse had taken place. She also claimed that following this encounter, Swalwell distanced himself and their professional relationship gradually faded.
Years later, in April 2024, the woman said she attended a charity gala where Swalwell was honored. Though she was no longer employed by him at that time, she said the two met for drinks after the event. She again described becoming heavily intoxicated and remembering only fragments of the night. She alleged that she told Swalwell “No” and attempted to push him away while he forced himself on her.
The former staffer also shared her allegations with CNN. In addition to her account, three other women reportedly told the network about various alleged instances of sexual misconduct involving Swalwell, though details about those claims have not been fully disclosed publicly.
In their letter, staffers stated:
“As leaders of teams working for Eric Swalwell, we’re horrified by the recent reporting in the San Francisco Chronicle and by CNN. We stand with our former colleague, and the other women who have come forward. We believe you should stand with them, too.”
The group described the alleged conduct as “abhorrent” and “beneath the dignity of those serving in public office,” adding that such behavior, if proven true, would betray the trust of Californians.
At the same time, the staffers acknowledged the uncertainty facing employees within Swalwell’s offices and campaign apparatus. They emphasized the need for stability and support for team members navigating the fallout.
“We also understand that we lead teams who need guidance and stability now, more than ever,” the letter continued. “We are focused on supporting our colleagues during this challenging time. Any decision of staff members to remain in their roles in the interim should not be viewed as support for Eric Swalwell.”
The allegations have prompted swift reactions from prominent Democrats. Sens. Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), along with Reps. Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), issued statements withdrawing their endorsements of Swalwell’s gubernatorial bid. Several called on him to suspend or end his campaign while the allegations are addressed.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also released a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations. She said the woman who made the claims “must be respected and heard,” and emphasized that the matter requires a thorough and transparent investigation.
Swalwell’s congressional & campaign senior staff are out with a new stmt
“We’re horrified by the recent reporting in the San Francisco Chronicle and by CNN”
“The behavior detailed in these reports is abhorrent, beneath the dignity of those serving in public office and betrays… pic.twitter.com/Ho9NqkQqin
— Brennan Leach (@brennanleach) April 11, 2026
“This extremely sensitive matter must be appropriately investigated with full transparency and accountability,” Pelosi stated. “As I discussed with Congressman Swalwell, it is clear that is best done outside of a gubernatorial campaign.”
As of now, the allegations remain accusations, and no formal legal findings have been announced. However, the public response from staff members and fellow Democrats signals deep concern within the party as scrutiny surrounding Swalwell intensifies.
Source Breitbart
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