Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, one of the leading candidates in the race to be California's next governor, has denied allegations of sexual misconduct from former staff members.
These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the front-runner for governor, he stated after multiple women accused him of various levels of sexual harassment and assault.
Opponents and several supporters, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have called for him to withdraw from the race.
Democrats will select their candidate in a primary on June 2, with the winner likely proceeding to the general election on November 3 in the heavily Democratic state.
The first allegation against Swalwell emerged in The San Francisco Chronicle, where a former staff member claimed he made inappropriate comments and solicited her for sex shortly after she started working in his office.
The unidentified woman also reported waking up naked in Swalwell's hotel room after what she didn't fully recall. Five years later, at a gala, she confronted Swalwell but has trouble remembering details of that night as well.
Her claims are supported by text messages to friends and her former boyfriend, who urged her to report the incident to police.
CNN later reported accusations from four additional women alleging sexual misconduct, prompting Swalwell's legal team to send cease-and-desist letters to two of them.
Prominent California Democrats, including Senator Adam Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have urged Swalwell to step down, emphasizing the need for full transparency and accountability regarding the allegations.
In his denials, Swalwell reaffirmed his dedication to public service and pledged to defend himself legally if necessary, while expressing his commitment to his family during this tumultuous time.
