DOJ investigates Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations

The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) has initiated an investigation into Eric Swalwell following his resignation from Congress. This action comes after the Democratic representative from California stepped down due to multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. A source familiar with the matter confirmed the federal investigation, although the DoJ has not publicly commented on it.

Swalwell, a seven-term representative and a frontrunner to replace Gavin Newsom as California’s governor, suspended his gubernatorial campaign after allegations surfaced. The San Francisco Chronicle reported an account from an unnamed former staffer who claimed Swalwell sexually assaulted her on two occasions. CNN corroborated this with similar accounts from three other women who alleged that Swalwell sent them unwanted sexual messages.

On the day after Swalwell's resignation, Lonna Drewes publicly accused him of drugging and raping her in 2018, stating that he choked her until she lost consciousness. Swalwell's attorney, Sara Azari, stated that he “categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault.” The Los Angeles sheriff’s office and the LA district attorney’s office are investigating the 2018 allegations, while the Manhattan district attorney’s office is also looking into a separate sexual assault allegation against Swalwell.

In his resignation statement, Swalwell expressed remorse for his past mistakes, stating, “I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past.” He also indicated his intention to fight the allegations against him.

Power Read: Eric Swalwell's resignation and the ensuing federal investigation significantly diminish his political capital, particularly as he was a leading candidate for the governorship of California. The allegations not only jeopardize his political future but also expose vulnerabilities within the Democratic Party, as they grapple with the implications of sexual misconduct claims against prominent figures. The investigations by multiple law enforcement agencies could further complicate the party's dynamics, especially in an election year, as they may lead to calls for accountability and reform.

What to watch: The upcoming developments in the DOJ investigation and any potential legal actions against Swalwell will be critical in shaping the political landscape in California and the broader Democratic Party.