Manhattan DA Launches Probe Into Swalwell Assault Claim

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office announced on Saturday that it has launched an investigation into a sexual assault allegation against U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat running for governor, stemming from an incident in a New York City hotel last year.

The probe follows a report detailing claims by a former staffer who accused Swalwell of having sex with her in April 2024 while she was heavily intoxicated and unable to consent. The woman, who was no longer employed in Swalwell's office at the time, described waking up in his hotel bed after a night of drinking following a charity gala. "I was pushing him off of me, saying no," she recounted. "He didn't stop." The alleged assault occurred in Manhattan, prompting the local district attorney's office to open the case.

A spokesperson for Bragg's office encouraged anyone with information to come forward. "We urge survivors and anyone with knowledge of these allegations to contact our Special Victims Division at 212-335-9373," the spokesperson said. "Our specially trained prosecutors, investigators and counselors are well-equipped to help you in a trauma-informed, survivor-centered manner."