Eric Swalwell Campaign Faces Staff Departures and Endorsement Losses Amid Allegations

The gubernatorial campaign of U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell is experiencing a significant period of instability following new allegations of sexual assault. Reports indicate that multiple senior aides have resigned from the campaign in recent days. Among those who departed is Courtni Pugh, a strategic adviser who functioned as the campaign's primary liaison to organized labor organizations.

While Pugh confirmed her resignation to media outlets, she declined to provide further comment on the matter. Two additional individuals familiar with internal campaign discussions confirmed the departures under the condition of anonymity.

The allegations stem from a report published by the San Francisco Chronicle, which detailed claims from a former staffer. The woman, who has not been publicly identified, alleged that she had sexual encounters with Swalwell while employed by him and accused him of sexually assaulting her on two occasions when she was reportedly too intoxicated to provide consent. These claims were reported shortly before the departure of several top campaign staff members.

In response to the allegations, Swalwell issued a statement on Friday denying the claims and suggesting they were politically motivated. These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor, the statement said. For nearly 20 years, I have served the public as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women.

I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.

The political fallout was immediate, with several prominent figures and organizations withdrawing their support. Representative Jimmy Gomez announced he was stepping down from his role in the campaign and urged Swalwell to exit the race entirely. Gomez stated that he learned shocking information containing the most serious accusations imaginable and noted that his involvement in any campaign begins and ends with trust.

He concluded that he could not in good conscience remain in any role with the campaign.

California U.S. Senator Adam Schiff also withdrew his endorsement of Swalwell on Friday afternoon. In a post on X, Schiff stated that he was deeply distressed by the allegations and believed the woman was brave to come forward.

He added that the story should be taken seriously and that he believed Swalwell should withdraw from the race.

Additionally, the California Teachers Association announced it was suspending its support, noting that the allegations were incredibly disturbing and unacceptable. The association stated that its elected board would meet to determine next steps according to its democratic process. Swalwell is currently seeking to advance out of California's nonpartisan primary, where the top two finishers move on to the general election.