Institutional support for Eric Swalwell collapses following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct

California gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell loses support from Adam Schiff and major unions following sexual assault claims. Read the latest updates.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 8:15 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from FOX 5 San Diego.

A Campaign in Crisis Amid Rising Accusations

The campaign of Representative Eric Swalwell for Governor of California has entered a state of emergency following a series of serious allegations regarding his personal conduct. On April 10, 2026, the San Francisco Chronicle reported an accusation of sexual assault against the East Bay Democrat, which was followed later the same day by a CNN report citing three additional women alleging sexual misconduct. While Swalwell has vehemently denied the claims, describing them as false and promising to defend his reputation through legal action, the speed at which his political foundation is eroding suggests a significant challenge to the viability of his candidacy.

High Profile Endorsements Vanish Overnight

The political fallout was immediate as some of Swalwell's most influential allies distanced themselves from his bid for the governor's mansion. Senator Adam Schiff, a powerful figure in California politics, announced via social media that he would be withdrawing his endorsement and explicitly called for the congressman to exit the race. Schiff characterized the accounts as deeply distressing and emphasized the importance of taking the accuser's story seriously. This sentiment was echoed by Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego, who expressed regret for having defended Swalwell on social media earlier in the week before the full scope of the allegations became public.

Labor Unions and Party Leadership Reassess Support

Beyond individual politicians, the institutional backbone of the California Democratic primary is beginning to pivot away from the former frontrunner. SEIU California and the California Teachers Association, two of the state's most formidable labor organizations, have announced the suspension of their support pending internal votes on official unendorsement. Furthermore, California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks issued a pointed statement urging all gubernatorial candidates to honestly assess the continued viability of their campaigns, a remark widely interpreted as a signal for Swalwell to reconsider his path forward.