Campaign Payments to Attorney Amid Sexual Assault Allegations Against Eric Swalwell

Financial disclosures for Eric Swalwell’s California gubernatorial campaign list a $40,000 payment to attorney Sara Azari for “professional services,” a $141,451 payment to law firm Greenberg Traurig for similar services, and two $539.70 payments to the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on July 12, 2021, made hours before a video later confirmed to show Swalwell with a woman.

Newsweek

The San Francisco Chronicle reported a former staffer’s 2019 sexual-assault claim against Swalwell, with additional alleged incidents in 2018 (Los Angeles) and two in 2024 (New York). Key actors include former congressman Eric Swalwell, attorney Sara Azari, law firm Greenberg Traurig, Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson, and billionaire Tom Steyer, the front-runner to replace Governor Gavin Newsom.

Newsweek

• July 12-13, 2021: Two $539.70 hotel payments; video of Swalwell recorded July 13.

Newsweek

• Jan. 1–Apr. 18, 2024: $40,000 to Azari and $141,451 to Greenberg Traurig reported.

Newsweek

• April 14, 2024: Swalwell says he will not comment and resigns from Congress.

Newsweek

• April 2024: DA Jones Dickson warns private hotlines lack confidentiality.

Newsweek

The campaign disclosed $40,000 for Azari, $141,451 for Greenberg Traurig, and $1,100 for the Las Vegas hotel, all reported to FEC.

Newsweek

Using campaign money for legal services that include advocacy raises questions about FEC compliance, the separation of campaign and personal legal costs, and ethics of an attorney also acting as a media commentator.

Newsweek

Attorney Sara Azari issued a statement denying the allegations and affirming Swalwell’s innocence. District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson stressed that private hotlines are not confidential and urged use of law-enforcement channels.

Newsweek

Critics contend the payments blur the line between campaign financing and personal legal defense, potentially allowing donor money to fund a private legal battle. The Chronicle’s reporting has been called opinion rather than fact, highlighting tension between journalism and legal-privilege claims.

Newsweek

It is unclear whether the $141,451 to Greenberg Traurig relates to the misconduct claims. No victims have contacted DA Jones Dickson, and the Manhattan DA investigation continues. Neither Swalwell nor Azari responded to comment requests.

Newsweek

• “categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him.” — Sara Azari, attorney

Newsweek

• “It's not my style to litigate my own cases in media, but I’m here because these allegations are false and he’s been advised not to make any statements, so I’m doing that on his behalf,” — Sara Azari, legal analyst on NewsNation

Newsweek

• “I have no comment on anything—period—and I’m going to hang up now,” — Eric Swalwell, former congressman

Newsweek

• “Just know that the information you provide to any hotline that is not a law enforcement hotline is not confidential,” — Ursula Jones Dickson, Alameda County District Attorney

Newsweek

The FEC may review the filings for violations. Manhattan and Los Angeles investigations continue, and new evidence could affect outcomes. Tom Steyer remains the gubernatorial front-runner.

Newsweek