FBI Director Invites Rep. Swalwell to Discuss Allegations
In an unexpected move, FBI Director Kash Patel extended an invitation to Rep. Eric Swalwell on Monday night, suggesting he could come in for an interview concerning allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
This offer came only hours after Swalwell, a California Democrat, announced his resignation from the House. These allegations include claims of sexual harassment by multiple women, inappropriate relationships with subordinates, and even accusations of sexual assault.
Patel stated on social media, “Eric Swalwell maintains that none of the allegations are true. Now that he has resigned, we welcome him to speak with the FBI and share any information he might have.” He also encouraged anyone with pertinent information to come forward, indicating the investigation remains open.
Swalwell, who previously served on the House Intelligence Committee, was a prominent voice during the Trump administration regarding the Russian collusion narrative. Meanwhile, Patel was a senior aide to the committee’s chair, Devin Nunes, known for defending Trump’s campaign against such allegations.
In 2023, Swalwell was removed from the Intelligence Committee by then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy due to reasons including conspiracy theories and a connection to a suspected Chinese spy. That year, Patel even referenced Swalwell in his book, labeling him as part of a group he called “government gangsters.”
The tension between the two escalated in the fall of 2025 when Swalwell confronted Patel during a Capitol hearing about the portrayal in the book. Patel was blunt, declaring, “I’m going to borrow your terminology and denounce your entire career in Congress. It was an embarrassment to the American people.”
Recently, Swalwell sent a cease-and-desist letter to the FBI, requesting they halt the release of files involving his interactions with a former associate. His resignation follows severe allegations from within his congressional office, including a claim of rape made by a former staff member.
While Swalwell denied the accusations as “false,” he did admit to having “personal failings.” In interviews, three accusers have shared their experiences, further complicating his situation.
Throughout this turmoil, Democratic leaders did not push for his resignation until after the announcement, despite earlier calls for him to withdraw from his governor candidacy. One staffer alluded to lingering but unconfirmed rumors, acknowledging that the situation had worsened significantly.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi insisted it was not true that Democrats overlooked Swalwell’s actions, attempting to distance herself from the unfolding crisis. Meanwhile, Sen. Ruben Gallego, who had a long political relationship with Swalwell, expressed disappointment, saying he felt misled about Swalwell’s character.
In a pointed response, Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican from New York, suggested that Gallego should publicly release communications with Swalwell to clarify their relationship. He emphasized the importance of transparency, especially given their close friendship.
Lawler argued, “If they were best friends, there’s almost a zero percent chance he didn’t know, and there’s almost a zero percent chance he didn’t actually have some communication about it.” He insisted that the women involved deserve full accountability as this situation unfolds.
