U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for governor of California following multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. A former staffer accused the Democratic congressman of sexual assault, alleging incidents occurred when she was too inebriated to consent.
The allegations, reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN, include claims of unwanted sexual advances from a total of four women. Swalwell has stated the accusations are false but apologized to his supporters and family.
Facing mounting pressure, including calls to resign from Congress from within his own party, Swalwell ended his bid for the governorship. Backers have reportedly distanced themselves from the campaign following the published reports.
Swalwell was considered a frontrunner in the race to replace California Governor Gavin Newsom.