Swalwell Campaign Staffers Break Silence With Unsigned Statement Supporting Accusers

Staffers from Rep. Eric Swalwell's congressional office and California gubernatorial campaign released an unsigned statement on April 12 expressing support for women who have accused him of sexual misconduct, saying the alleged behavior is "abhorrent" and "beneath the dignity of those serving in public office." The statement came one day after at least four top campaign advisers departed and major Democratic figures, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, called for Swalwell to withdraw from the race.

The unsigned statement, attributed to more than a dozen staffers, explicitly stated that remaining in their positions should not be construed as support for Swalwell. "We stand with our former colleague, and the other women who have come forward," the statement read. "We believe you should stand with them, too."

The accusations surfaced on April 11 when the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN reported allegations including a claim from a former staffer that Swalwell sexually assaulted her twice while she was too intoxicated to consent. Swalwell has denied the allegations, calling them "absolutely false" in a social media video posted April 11, while also apologizing to his wife for unspecified "mistakes" in his past.

The staffers who remained in their roles justified their decision by citing responsibility to junior staff members. "We lead teams who need guidance and stability now, more than ever," the statement said, noting that junior employees could not "immediately forfeit their income and benefits without significant personal risk or consequence."

Swalwell's attorney, Elias Dabaie, told CNN on April 11 that his client "intends to continue his campaign," though he said the timing of his return to campaigning was "not clear." The campaign suspended fundraising through ActBlue on April 11, though a campaign spokesperson did not respond to questions about the decision.

Context

The departures and public criticism represent a rapid collapse of institutional support for Swalwell's candidacy. The California Labor Federation's executive council voted unanimously on April 12 to withdraw its endorsement, with federation head Lorena Gonzalez stating, "Ultimately, our duty is to serve California's workers, not any politician." SEIU California also voted to revoke its support and called for Swalwell to "immediately" end his campaign.

In the 2024 California gubernatorial race, the winner received approximately 5.3 million votes statewide. Major organizational backing is typically critical for Democratic primary candidates in California, where the field often includes multiple viable contenders competing for labor union and progressive organization support.

What's Next

Swalwell said he intends to spend the weekend with family and friends, but his attorney has not provided a timeline for his return to active campaigning. The central question now is whether additional pressure from party leadership or further organizational withdrawals will force a decision on whether to remain in the race. Swalwell's campaign has not indicated whether it will continue fundraising efforts or adjust its operational structure in response to the staff departures.