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BREAKING NOW
Apr 3, 2025 4:52 pm
Global Media Network
Swalwell governor exit: scandal ends run
Eric Swalwell, a US Representative from California, has suspended his campaign for governor. The move came after serious sexual assault and misconduct allegations from a former staff member and other women. The case has shaken the California governor race.
The allegations were reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN. A former staff member said Swalwell assaulted her twice when she was too drunk to give consent. Three other women accused him of sending nude photos or explicit messages without permission. Swalwell has strongly denied all claims and called them false.
Before stepping back, Swalwell said he would fight the allegations but that his campaign should not carry the burden. He also expressed regret for past mistakes and apologized to family, staff, and supporters.
The political fallout grew quickly. Prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, urged him to leave the race. Several campaign co-chairs resigned. Key endorsements were also withdrawn by Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla.
Some lawmakers also called for a deeper investigation. The Manhattan district attorney’s office said it would review a sexual assault allegation linked to 2024 in New York. At the same time, the Department of Homeland Security looked into claims about hiring a nanny without legal work papers.
Swalwell is in his seventh term in Congress. He is known for his strong criticism of Donald Trump and his role in impeachment proceedings. He also briefly ran for president in 2020 but dropped out early.
He entered the California governor race late but recently gained momentum in a crowded Democratic field. His exit now reshapes the contest to replace Governor Gavin Newsom. Other candidates include several Democrats and Republicans competing under California’s top-two primary system.
Following his suspension, other candidates said the allegations should be taken seriously. Some called for accountability and further action. The race for California governor remains highly competitive and uncertain.
Swalwell announced his run during a late-night television appearance in November. He had recently begun to rise in polls and was seen as a strong contender in the Democratic field. His campaign focused on public safety, housing, and economic issues in California.
After the allegations became public, legal and political pressure increased. Reports said federal and local authorities started reviewing different claims connected to the case. The situation expanded beyond politics into possible criminal investigations.
The allegations caused a major split among Democratic leaders. Some defended due process, while others quickly withdrew support. Campaign officials said they were shocked by the speed of the collapse. Several staff members left the campaign within hours.
Political analysts say the race for governor is now more uncertain. California’s election system allows the top two candidates to advance regardless of party. This could reshape the final contest if voter support shifts after Swalwell’s exit. The Democratic field remains wide open.
Authorities have not made any final findings. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office said it is reviewing the 2024 allegation carefully. The Department of Homeland Security also opened a separate review into immigration compliance claims tied to a household worker. Officials have not confirmed any charges at this stage.
Other candidates in the governor race responded quickly. Some praised the women who came forward. Others said Swalwell should resign from Congress completely. The debate over accountability has become a major theme in the campaign.
Public reaction has been intense across California and online. Supporters of Swalwell call the claims politically motivated. Critics argue the allegations must be fully investigated. The final outcome may depend on ongoing legal reviews and political pressure. For now, the governor race continues without one of its leading figures.
Swalwell has said he will continue to defend himself. He has not confirmed whether he will resign from Congress. His political future remains uncertain as investigations continue.
The case is expected to develop further in coming weeks.
Lawmakers say they will continue monitoring the situation closely, as pressure builds for clarity and accountability in both legal and political arenas.
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