Democrats back to square one in California after Swalwell implosion

Published April 13, 2026 2:02pm ET



The race to become California’s next governor was already a mess for Democrats, but bombshell allegations of sexual misconduct by its front-runner, Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), have turned it into a disaster and put the party in need of a quick reset ahead of the June 2 primary.

Four women came forward with accusations of sexual misconduct against Swalwell, including claims that he sexually assaulted a former aide on two occasions while she was under the influence and unable to consent.

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