Brian Stelter, a prominent media analyst for CNN, recently commended mainstream media efforts for revealing sexual misconduct allegations against Eric Swalwell, California’s leading Democratic gubernatorial candidate, prompting backlash from social media users.
Swalwell, who had a slim edge over other Democratic contenders, has halted his campaign following claims of sexual assault made by a former staff member, as well as various accusations of inappropriate behavior. He has refuted these allegations.
“There’s been talk for years, circulating silently,” someone stated. “It’s essentially funding for political parties.”
On Monday, Stelter referred to the coverage as a significant moment for journalism. He appeared to overlook the fact that many had chosen to ignore these rumors for a long time.
Stelter described the revelations as evidence of the strength of investigative journalism, asserting that CNN and the Chronicle had effectively dashed Swalwell’s gubernatorial ambitions.
His comments drew criticism, with one Twitter user humorously asking if there was an award for his “comedic genius” and highlighting skepticism towards the notion of credible investigative reporting in this instance.
A former California Congressman remarked, “It’s ten years too late. Think how many lives could’ve been spared from Swalwell if the media had truly done its job, rather than shielding the Democrats.” Another commenter noted it took “seven congressional terms and six victims for this story to emerge, something everyone seemed to know.”
“Investigative journalism? This was common knowledge for years,” another critic stated. “Now it has surfaced primarily to eliminate him from the race and avoid splitting votes among Democrats.”
For a while, staffers began leaving Swalwell’s campaign, resulting in dwindling support from those who once backed him.
Though Swalwell has paused his campaign in response to the allegations, he will remain on the ballot due to California law. This may provide an opening for Republican candidates if support for Swalwell becomes divided among the other Democratic participants in the race.
The top two candidates from the June 2 primary, regardless of party affiliation, will compete in the general election set for November.
In a recent statement, Swalwell issued an apology to “my family, staff, friends, and supporters about my past misjudgments.”
Some are now calling for Swalwell to resign from his congressional position.
