Full Breakdown
New Allegations Emerge Against Eric Swalwell: Lonna Drewes Accuses Him of Rape
4/14/2026, 10:26:55 PM
Overview of the Allegations
Lonna Drewes, a model and software entrepreneur, publicly accused former Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) of drugging and raping her in a West Hollywood hotel room in 2018. This accusation marks the latest in a series of allegations against Swalwell, who announced his resignation from Congress amid mounting pressure and scrutiny over multiple sexual misconduct claims.
Details of the Incident
During a press conference in Beverly Hills on April 14, 2026, Drewes recounted her experience, stating that Swalwell had invited her to a political event but instead took her to his hotel room under the pretense of retrieving paperwork. She alleged that after consuming only one glass of wine, she became incapacitated, unable to move her arms or body. “He raped me and he choked me. And while he was choking me, I lost consciousness and I thought I died,” Drewes said. She emphasized that she did not consent to any sexual activity.
Drewes explained that she did not report the incident to law enforcement at the time due to fear of Swalwell's political power and legal background. “My delay in taking action against Eric was driven by fear, not doubt,” she stated, highlighting the psychological impact the incident had on her life.
Context of the Allegations
Drewes is the fifth woman to accuse Swalwell of sexual misconduct. Prior to her allegations, reports surfaced detailing accusations from other women, including a former staffer who claimed Swalwell assaulted her when she was too intoxicated to consent. These allegations have led to investigations by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and the House Ethics Committee, as well as calls for Swalwell's expulsion from Congress.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the allegations, Swalwell expressed regret for “mistakes in judgment” in his past but has consistently denied the accusations, labeling them as “false.” He stated, “I will fight the serious false allegation made against me,” while acknowledging the need to step down to avoid distractions from his duties.
Drewes' attorney, Lisa Bloom, announced plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office and indicated that they would cooperate with ongoing investigations. Bloom emphasized that the case transcends political affiliations, stating, “This is about accountability versus silence.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Swalwell have pointed to the seriousness of the allegations and the implications for his political career. Some have expressed that his resignation is insufficient given the gravity of the claims against him. Bloom criticized Swalwell's attempts to downplay the allegations, asserting that such responses are disrespectful to victims.
What's Next
As Drewes prepares to file her police report, the investigations into Swalwell's conduct are expected to continue. The outcomes of these inquiries may lead to further legal repercussions for Swalwell, who is already facing scrutiny from multiple jurisdictions regarding various allegations of sexual misconduct.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He raped me and he choked me. And while he was choking me, I lost consciousness and I thought I died. I did not consent to any sexual activity.” — Lonna Drewes, Accuser
- “My delay in taking action against Eric was driven by fear, not doubt.” — Lonna Drewes, Accuser
- “Neither myself, Lisa nor Lonna care or concern ourselves with the political affiliation of the accused or how these allegations may or may not affect a political campaign or a career. This is about much more than politics, and belittling such serious allegations is offensive to Lonna and victims everywhere. This is not about Democrat versus Republican. This is about accountability versus silence.” — Lisa Bloom, Attorney for Lonna Drewes
- “I will fight the serious false allegation made against me.” — Eric Swalwell, Former Congressman
The allegations against Eric Swalwell continue to unfold, raising significant questions about accountability and the treatment of sexual misconduct claims in political spheres.
