Ethics Review Over Allegations Against Sen. Gallego
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) announced that Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s office, along with Senate ethics officials, are examining information she provided regarding Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.). This information includes accusations of sexual misconduct and violations related to campaign financing. However, Gallego’s office has refuted these claims and stated they haven’t been contacted by the ethics committee.
Luna spoke to CBS News’s Major Garrett, addressing a post she shared earlier. When asked about her comments, she clarified that they were directed toward Sen. Gallego, who has connections with former Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.).
“I checked with Sen. Thune’s chief of staff, and they confirmed they’re reviewing the matter through their ethics process. We’re sending all relevant information their way,” Luna noted.
When pressed on the gravity of the allegations, Luna explained that a woman had approached her through her attorney, indicating Luna’s intent to go public concerning an incident that was “allegedly sexual in nature” involving Gallego.
Additionally, Luna mentioned concerns about “obviously an issue of campaign finance violations.”
She emphasized the urgency of the matter, suggesting that Thune should treat the allegations seriously, particularly in light of recent events involving Eric Swalwell.
Garrett later inquired whether the allegations could be considered criminal. Luna responded cautiously, saying, “If there are individuals involved who might have been trafficked, then I think that’s true. We have clearly pointed out the campaign finance violations as well.”
She clarified that she isn’t personally conducting an investigation but is instead relaying the information to appropriate authorities. CBS News reported that a representative for Gallego dismissed the accusations, calling them “right-wing conspiracy theories” and stating that Gallego has not received or been contacted by the ethics committee.
Luna’s allegations came just days after Gallego publicly disassociated himself from Swalwell, who had faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct.
On April 10, Gallego withdrew his support for Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign amidst the unfolding allegations, describing the claims as “indefensible.” He later stated that he regretted quickly defending Swalwell without knowing the full details.
On April 13, Gallego escalated his stance, declaring that Swalwell was “no longer fit to serve” and should be expelled from Congress. Gallego also mentioned being unaware of any allegations against Swalwell and expressed trust in someone he considered a friend.
Former staff members alleged that Swalwell had sexually assaulted one individual in 2019, claiming he returned to do so again after becoming intoxicated in 2024. They also reported that Swalwell sent her inappropriate images and solicited nude photos.
Another accuser, Rona Drews, came forward during an April 14 press conference, accusing Swalwell of drugging, raping, and strangling her in a hotel room in 2018. Drews recounted losing consciousness and thinking she might be dead.
In response to the accusations, Swalwell stated, “I intend to fight against the serious and false allegations made against me. However, I must take responsibility for the mistakes I have made,” as he announced plans to resign from Congress.
A political correspondent remarked that the situation has significant implications for Sen. Gallego, as he is gearing up for his presidential campaign and had portrayed a close relationship with Swalwell, now distancing himself from those ties.
