Swalwell Suspends Gubernatorial Campaign Amid Allegations

Reactions from both Democrats and Republicans to Rep. Eric Swalwell’s decision to suspend his California gubernatorial campaign were quite similar: many wondered why it took so long for him to step down in the face of multiple sexual assault allegations.

Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host who is a prominent Republican candidate, expressed that Swalwell’s resignation was a foregone conclusion and questioned his initial entry into the race.

“This just showcases the arrogance of career politicians, who, frankly, seem to think they can act without accountability,” Hilton wrote in an email.

He added, “Additionally, the hypocrisy of California’s Democratic leadership is truly repugnant.”

Hilton claimed that many influential Democrats and labor organizations were aware of the situation but continued their support, even though it was, as he put it, “an open secret in the Capitol and Sacramento.”

Specifically, he called out Representative Nancy Pelosi, Senator Adam Schiff, the teachers’ union, and the SEIU for what he viewed as “false outrage and accusations.”

“California is governed by a corrupt Democratic clique that is descending into chaos and scandal,” Hilton said.

He further commented, “The fallout from Swalwell’s actions permeates California’s Democratic establishment.”

California Democratic Party Chairman Rusty Hicks stated that Swalwell made the right choice in halting his campaign.

Hicks described Swalwell’s conduct as disgraceful and declared him unfit for public office in California. He expressed hope that the victims who came forward would find justice.

Since Swalwell’s name cannot be removed from the upcoming primary ballot, Hicks urged Democrats to refrain from voting for him, emphasizing that he is unfit for office.

Rep. James Gallagher, a Yuba City Republican running to fill the late Rep. Doug LaMalfa’s seat, indicated curiosity about Swalwell’s future moves now that he has suspended his campaign.

“I’m hoping this means he’ll stop campaigning altogether, but he should also resign from Congress,” Gallagher suggested. “If he doesn’t, he may find himself forced out, much like Congressman Tom Gonzalez.”

Gonzalez, a Republican from Texas, is currently under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for allegations of sexual misconduct.

Gallagher anticipated that Swalwell’s supporters might spread out among the other Democrats still in the race.

“The top two candidates could end up being Republicans,” he noted.

Stephen Klubeck, a billionaire who had invested over $1 million in Swalwell’s campaign, voiced his disappointment and announced he was leaving the Democratic Party.

“Let everyone know I’m now a libertarian,” Klubeck said in an exclusive interview.

Larry Gerston, a political science professor emeritus at San Jose State University, remarked that Swalwell’s retreat from campaigning wasn’t surprising, especially with multiple women accusing him of inappropriate behavior.

He observed that given the circumstances, Swalwell really had no choice but to step back.

Gerston predicted that if Swalwell completely withdraws, progressive figures like Tom Steyer and former Congresswoman Katie Porter might gain a significant number of votes.

“Why? Because I think their viewpoints align more closely with Swalwell’s than others,” he commented.

He noted Xavier Becerra and Betty Yee, but indicated they were lagging in the polls.

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor at San Francisco State University, stated that Swalwell’s suspension demonstrates that Democrats take the allegations seriously.

“The almost unanimous call for Swalwell’s resignation from Democratic leaders highlights the credibility of the accusations and shows that such behavior is unacceptable to party members and voters,” McDaniel said.

He contrasted this response with how Republicans often handle similar allegations.