Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) announced Sunday he is suspending his campaign for governor amid allegations of rape, sexual assault and sexual misconduct, which he denies.
Why it matters: Swalwell was one of the Democratic frontrunners in the race. His exit is a colossal shakeup of what has already been one of the most volatile gubernatorial races in recent memory.
What they're saying: "I am suspending my campaign for Governor," Swalwell wrote in a post on X.
- "To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I've made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that's my fight, not a campaign's."
Between the lines: Swalwell offered no indication he plans to give up his House seat, amid calls from colleagues in both parties for him to resign.
- "Good first step. Now resign from Congress or face expulsion," Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) wrote in response to Swalwell's post.
- Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) has said she plans to force a vote to expel Swalwell when the House returns to session this week, though that would require a two-thirds majority to pass.
Zoom in: Swalwell lost nearly all of his endorsements in the 24 hours after four women accused him of sexual misconduct on Friday.
- All 21 of the House and Senate Democrats who had been supporting his campaign rescinded their support, with several Democratic Party leaders calling on him to exit the race.
- Powerful unions and state lawmakers who had been supporting him similarly distanced themselves shortly after the allegations surfaced.
Zoom out: Swalwell leaves behind a crowded field of contenders for the California governorship.
- Among the other leading Democratic candidates in the June 2 free-for-all primary are billionaire Tom Steyer and former Rep. Katie Porter.
- Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former state Controller Betty Yee and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa are also running as Democrats.
- Republican political commentator Steve Hilton — President Trump's pick for the role — and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are running as Republicans.
Editor's note: This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
