A former close associate of ex-New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio shared unsettling details about an encounter with former Congressman Eric Swalwell, raising concerns about his troubling behavior. This incident, which took place back in 2016, seemed to foreshadow the severe allegations against him today regarding sexual misconduct.
Progressive activist Nomiki Konst recalled a particular evening at a Democratic National Committee gala in Chicago where she felt quite uncomfortable after running into Swalwell. The meeting occurred after he separated from his wife, Charlaine McCray. He approached her with a glass of prosecco during a toast, and she described how he quickly focused his attention on her.
During their interaction, she mentioned that Swalwell even “touched my hand” despite the presence of numerous notable politicians and media figures. Alarmingly, when he disclosed that he was married, it heightened her discomfort, as she worried their exchange might be misinterpreted.
“He acted so openly around senators and media during that Democratic gathering,” she stated. “It felt really reckless. It was almost common knowledge that he was unfaithful. I can’t help but wonder how he thought he could escape serious consequences.”
Currently, Swalwell faces accusations of assaulting two women and harassing others, including a junior staff member. While he denies these claims, he stepped down from Congress on Monday, and investigations have been initiated in various major cities regarding his actions.
Years after their initial encounter, Swalwell attempted to connect with Konst through social media without addressing their previous interaction, which left her stunned at his perceived self-importance.
Konst expressed frustration over the attempts to downplay sexual misconduct in political circles, remarking, “[Swalwell] must have thought he could rise to governor?” She emphasized the troubling culture surrounding such behaviors.
Meanwhile, Tara Palmeri, another commentator, reflected on the situation, saying she feels a mix of pity and disdain for Swalwell, describing his behavior as almost sociopathic.
