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Eric Swalwell breaks silence on rape allegations with message for wife: 5 things to know
Congressman Eric Swalwell denied allegations of sexual assault, including rape, labeling them as absolutely false.
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has publicly addressed the allegations regarding his sexual assault of several women, which includes a specific accusation of rape.
Here's what Eric Swalwell has said: 5 things to know
- In a video shared on social media, the congressman from California categorically rejected these claims, labeling them as “absolutely false.”
- “These allegations of sexual assault are flat false,” Swalwell stated. “They did not happen. They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.”
- Swalwell appeared to recognize personal misconduct, expressing regret to his wife for “mistakes in judgment” that implied infidelity, while maintaining that these were distinct from the allegations. “I do not suggest to you in any way that I’m perfect or that I’m a saint,” he stated.
- He apologised to his wife for putting her in this position. Swalwell resides with his wife Brittany, a small business owner, and their three kids. “I have certainly made mistakes in judgment in my past, but those mistakes are between me and my wife, and to her, I apologize deeply for putting her in this position.”
- The response was issued as his gubernatorial campaign faced significant challenges following allegations made by several women.
Allegations against Eric Swalwell
One former staff member alleged that Swalwell raped her in 2024 while she was inebriated, whereas three additional women recounted different instances of sexual misconduct, which included unsolicited explicit messages and unwelcome advances.
Reports from CNN and The San Francisco Chronicle validated crucial aspects of the women's testimonies, such as text messages and discussions with friends and family.
The reaction has been immediate and severe at the highest echelons. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described the allegations as “incredibly disturbing” and called for an investigation, insisting that Swalwell should terminate his campaign.
“This is unacceptable of anyone—certainly not an elected official—and must be taken seriously. We commend the courageous women for sharing their experiences," Jeffries stated.
