Former California Representative Eric Swalwell Faces Manhattan DA Investigation After Staffer Accusations

A former junior staffer for former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell has publicly accused him of raping her in a New York City hotel in April 2024 and of non-consensual sexual contact after a night of heavy drinking in California in 2019. The staffer, who requested anonymity to avoid retaliation, disclosed the allegations to CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle earlier this month. She confirmed that she is cooperating with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, has retained new legal counsel, and continues to refrain from revealing her identity.

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The staffer worked for Swalwell’s congressional office as a junior aide in 2019, the year she alleges an incident of non-consensual contact occurred following heavy drinking. Two years later, she alleges a separate rape took place at a Manhattan hotel. The accusations surfaced publicly in early April 2026, prompting immediate media coverage and a response from the Manhattan DA.

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• 2019 – Alleged non-consensual sexual contact after heavy drinking in California.

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• April 2024 – Alleged rape in a New York City hotel.

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• Early April 2026 – Staffer shares accusations with CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle.

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• Day after CNN report (April 2026) – Manhattan District Attorney’s Office opens an investigation.

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• Shortly after the allegations – Swalwell withdraws from the California governor’s race.

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• Subsequently – Swalwell resigns his congressional seat.

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Following the public allegations, Swalwell exited the California gubernatorial contest and later resigned from the U.S. House of Representatives. He has indicated an intention to pursue legal action against what he describes as false claims. The Manhattan DA’s investigation now examines both the 2019 and 2024 incidents, potentially exposing criminal liability.

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Swalwell publicly denied the accusations, characterizing them as unfounded and asserting his right to defend himself through factual evidence and, if necessary, legal proceedings. The staffer, while remaining unnamed, affirmed her cooperation with law-enforcement authorities and highlighted her decision to secure new counsel to navigate the process.

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• “these allegations are false,” — Eric Swalwell, former U.S. Representative

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• “defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.” — Eric Swalwell, former U.S. Representative

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The Manhattan District Attorney’s inquiry examines alleged sexual misconduct that allegedly occurred in both California and New York and involves a former member of Congress. The case therefore tests the ability of a city prosecutor’s office to pursue allegations against a high-profile political figure across state lines.

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The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office continues to gather evidence and interview witnesses. No charges have been filed as of this writing. Both parties have indicated they will issue further statements as the investigation proceeds, and the case remains open pending the DA’s final assessment.

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