WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-California) announced his resignation from Congress on April 13, 2026, capping a swift and dramatic collapse of his political career following accusations of sexual misconduct and assault from at least five women.
The seven-term congressman, who represented California’s 14th district since 2013, had been considered a leading contender in the 2026 Democratic primary for governor to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom. He suspended his gubernatorial campaign on April 12 before formally announcing his departure from the House the following day.
New Accusation Emerges
On April 14, a fifth woman, Lonna Drewes, held a news conference in Beverly Hills, California, where she publicly accused Swalwell of drugging and raping her in a West Hollywood hotel room in 2018.
Drewes, a model and fashion technology entrepreneur, alleged that Swalwell promised to help with her political aspirations before taking her to his hotel room under the pretense of retrieving papers. She claimed he drugged her drink, raped her, and choked her until she lost consciousness, stating, “I thought I died.”
Drewes said she had only one glass of wine that evening and did not consent to any sexual activity. She plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and is working with attorneys, including Lisa Bloom. Evidence such as journal entries, text messages, and photographs will reportedly be submitted to authorities rather than the media.
Broader Allegations
The accusations against Swalwell now involve at least five women. Earlier reports detailed claims including:
- A former staffer who alleged that Swalwell raped her on two occasions when she was heavily intoxicated and unable to consent, with one incident reportedly leaving her bruised and bleeding.
- Multiple women accusing him of inappropriate sexual messages, unsolicited nude photos, and other forms of misconduct.
The initial wave of public allegations surfaced in early April 2026 through reports by CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle.
Swalwell’s Response
Swalwell has strongly denied the sexual assault allegations, describing them as “serious, false” and politically motivated. In statements following the accusations, he acknowledged making “mistakes in judgment” in his past but maintained that the claims of nonconsensual acts are untrue.
He cited the distraction caused by the controversy as the reason for stepping down, stating it would be unfair to his constituents to remain in office while fighting the allegations.
Investigations Underway
The developments have triggered multiple probes:
- The House Ethics Committee opened a formal investigation on April 13 into whether Swalwell engaged in sexual misconduct, including toward a staffer under his supervision. The committee’s jurisdiction may end with his resignation.
- The Manhattan District Attorney’s office is investigating at least one of the assault claims involving an incident in New York.
- Accusers’ lawyers have indicated they will submit evidence directly to law enforcement authorities for potential criminal proceedings.
Political Fallout
Swalwell’s rapid exit has sent shockwaves through California politics. His gubernatorial campaign unraveled almost immediately after the allegations became public, with staffers resigning, endorsements being withdrawn, and prominent Democrats — including rivals in the governor’s race — urging him to step aside. Bipartisan pressure mounted in Congress, with some lawmakers calling for his expulsion.
His departure has left the Democratic field for California governor in disarray, with no clear frontrunner emerging. Candidates such as former Rep. Katie Porter and billionaire activist Tom Steyer are among those positioned to benefit from the reshuffling of voter support ahead of the primary.
A special election is expected to be called to fill the remainder of Swalwell’s congressional term.
Note: The allegations against Eric Swalwell remain unproven in a court of law. Investigations by law enforcement and congressional panels are ongoing, and no criminal charges have been filed as of April 15, 2026. Swalwell continues to deny any criminal wrongdoing.
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