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Cloobeck Arrested, Seeks $1M Refund After Dropping Swalwell Support

5/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen Cloobeck was arrested in West Hollywood on a felony charge of trying to dissuade a victim or witness from testifying.
He was released after posting a $300,000 bond.
Cloobeck withdrew his financial support for Rep. Eric Swalwell’s suspended California governor campaign after multiple sexual-assault allegations.
He later sought the return of over $1 million he spent supporting Swalwell after leaving the governor race in November 2025.

History

Historical Context

John Edwards announced his 2008 presidential bid on Dec 28 2006; his campaign later disclosed $167,700 raised from Fortress Investment Group associates, underscoring donor-influence worries. The race arrived as FEC chair Michael Toner warned the 2008 election would top $1 billion and that candidates should have raised $100 million by the end of 2007, leading to tighter enforcement.

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Story summary

Stephen Cloobeck was arrested in West Hollywood on a felony charge of trying to dissuade a victim or witness from testifying.
He was released after posting a $300,000 bond.
Cloobeck withdrew his financial support for Rep. Eric Swalwell’s suspended California governor campaign after multiple sexual-assault allegations.
He later sought the return of over $1 million he spent supporting Swalwell after leaving the governor race in November 2025.

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