Daijiworld Media Network - California

California, Apr 11: U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, a leading contender in the California gubernatorial race, has been accused of sexual assault by a former staff member, according to a report published by the San Francisco Chronicle on Friday.

The former staffer alleged that Swalwell engaged in sexual encounters with her while she was working in his office and further claimed that he assaulted her on two occasions when she was “too intoxicated to consent,” the report said. Swalwell has strongly denied all allegations.

“These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor,” Swalwell said in a statement, adding that he has always served with integrity as a prosecutor and congressman and would defend himself legally if required.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Swalwell’s attorney also sent a cease-and-desist letter to the woman, demanding she retract her statements and stop making what he called false accusations, warning of possible legal action. The woman, through her attorney, has maintained that her allegations are accurate and said she will not withdraw them.

The report further states that several political opponents have now called on Swalwell to withdraw from the gubernatorial race. Fellow Democrats including Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, and Tony Thurmond have expressed concern over the allegations, with some calling them “horrifying” and urging accountability.

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna has called for an investigation by law enforcement and the House Ethics Committee, stating that the matter must be thoroughly examined. U.S. Senator Adam Schiff has also withdrawn his endorsement of Swalwell, expressing being “deeply distressed” by the allegations.

The California Teachers’ Association has suspended its support for his campaign, calling the allegations “incredibly disturbing and unacceptable.”

Swalwell’s campaign has previously dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, while stating that there has never been any prior settlement or verified complaint against him.

The controversy has now intensified the California governor’s race, with growing pressure on Swalwell from both political opponents and former supporters.