Calls for Investigation into Swalwell Amid Allegations
On Friday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries urged Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) to halt his campaign for the California governorship, following serious sexual misconduct allegations. However, Jeffries faced backlash for not demanding Swalwell’s resignation from Congress.
“In light of the deeply troubling sexual assault allegations against Congressman Eric Swalwell, we are calling for an immediate investigation into these incidents and for him to stop his campaign for California’s governor,” said a statement from Jeffries and the House Democratic leadership.
“This is unacceptable for anyone, especially an elected official, and it must be taken seriously,” the statement added, but it did not explicitly call for Swalwell to resign.
Swalwell is accused by a former congressional staff member of sexually assaulting her twice while she was incapacitated.
Additionally, reports indicate that other women have also alleged misconduct by Swalwell, ranging from unwanted touching to unsolicited explicit photos.
Jeffries’ remarks ignited criticism on social media.
Former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer commented, “What an unprincipled and meaningless statement. If they believe Mr. Swalwell did something wrong, they should insist that he step down.”
Mike Davis, founder of the legal advocacy group Article III Project, questioned why Swalwell is considered “too toxic to run for office” for governor but not entirely unfit to serve in Congress.
Conservative podcaster Graham Allen accused Jeffries of cowardice, saying, “You’re a coward.” He further urged for Swalwell’s resignation.
Brett Tolman, a former U.S. attorney, dismissed Jeffries’ statement as “absolutely ridiculous,” suggesting that one can withdraw from the gubernatorial race while remaining in Congress.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) called for Swalwell’s resignation and said the same should apply to Democrats.
Luna expressed confusion over the “parallel universe” elected officials seem to inhabit, where basic human dignity is overlooked.
Meanwhile, Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) announced plans to introduce a resolution in the House to censure Swalwell, labeling his behavior as “disgusting and unbecoming of a member of Congress.”
Swalwell has denied the allegations. “These claims are false and were made just before an election against a leading candidate for governor,” he stated.
He emphasized his commitment to public service and his intention to protect his family from what he termed lies. Swalwell expressed regret over past “misjudgments” and apologized to his wife, stating the issues were between them.
