The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has opened an investigation into a sexual assault allegation against Eric Swalwell, a California congressman and front-runner in the state’s gubernatorial race. The inquiry comes after a former staff member accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her twice, once in 2019 when she worked for him and again in 2024 after a charity gala in New York City, both times alleging she was too intoxicated to consent.

According to a detailed report from CNN, the woman described being raped by Swalwell after heavy drinking and left with bruises and bleeding. She told CNN, “I was pushing him off of me, saying no. He didn’t stop.” The woman also shared medical records and text messages with friends and family describing the alleged assault in 2024, supporting her account. She said she did not go to the police at the time because she feared she would not be believed.

Three other women have also accused Swalwell of various forms of sexual misconduct, including sending unsolicited explicit messages and photos. Some of these women shared screenshots with CNN, though none of the reviewed messages were sexually explicit. The women asked to remain anonymous due to concerns about retaliation or professional consequences.

Swalwell has strongly denied all allegations.

"These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the front-runner for governor. For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women,” he said in a statement. Swalwell added that he intends to defend himself with facts and, if necessary, take legal action.

Swalwell’s attorney, Elias Dabaie, confirmed sending at least one cease-and-desist letter to accusers, calling the allegations “baseless” and threatening legal action for defamation, according to the Los Angeles Times. Dabaie said multiple such letters had been sent, and Swalwell’s campaign denied any wrongdoing, including claims that interns were required to sign nondisclosure agreements.

The allegations have affected Swalwell’s campaign. The California Teachers Association has suspended its support, and prominent backers like U.S. Senator Adam Schiff have withdrawn their endorsement. Other Democratic rivals, including former state controller Betty Yee and state schools superintendent Tony Thurmond, have urged Swalwell to withdraw from the race. Some, such as former U.S. Representative Katie Porter and climate activist Tom Steyer, expressed support for the alleged victim but stopped short of calling for Swalwell’s exit.

As mail ballots for the June 2 California primary are set to go out soon, pressure is mounting for Swalwell to address the situation. The Manhattan DA’s investigation is ongoing, and it remains unclear how or when the case will be resolved.

Vicki McKenna