LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — A growing political scandal involving Eric Swalwell intensified Tuesday as a fifth woman accused the congressman of sexual misconduct. The latest allegation came just as the California Democrat resigned from Congress and ended his campaign for governor. The new accusation adds pressure to an already escalating situation. Law enforcement agencies on both coasts are now reviewing claims against the 45-year-old lawmaker.
Lonna Drewes, a former model and software entrepreneur, publicly accused Swalwell of rape during a press appearance in Los Angeles. She alleged that the incident occurred in July 2018 at a West Hollywood location. Drewes said Swalwell spiked her drink, leaving her unable to move. She claimed he then assaulted her in his hotel room.
“I couldn’t move my arms or my body,” she said. “I did not consent to any sexual activity.”
She also alleged that Swalwell choked her during the encounter, causing her to lose consciousness. Drewes said she feared retaliation due to his political influence, which delayed her decision to speak out.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed it is investigating a sexual assault allegation tied to the 2018 incident. Officials have not released further details about the case. At the same time, authorities in New York are reviewing a separate claim. The Manhattan district attorney’s office confirmed it is looking into accusations made by a former congressional aide. The aide alleged that Swalwell raped her during a 2024 encounter in a New York City hotel. She said she was too intoxicated to give consent.
Drewes is the fifth woman to come forward in recent days. According to reports by major media outlets, three additional women accused Swalwell of inappropriate behavior. These claims include sending explicit messages and unsolicited photos. The growing number of allegations has fueled public scrutiny and raised concerns about a pattern of misconduct.
Swalwell strongly denied all accusations through his attorney. In a statement, his legal team said he “categorically and unequivocally” rejects every claim of sexual misconduct. The statement described the allegations as politically motivated and false. His attorney called them a “calculated and transparent political hit job.” Swalwell also addressed the controversy on social media. He apologized for what he called “mistakes in judgment” but maintained that the most serious allegations are untrue.
The scandal has had immediate political consequences. Swalwell withdrew from California’s governor’s race over the weekend. He had been considered a strong contender in a crowded Democratic field. On Monday, he announced his resignation from the U.S. House of Representatives. The resignation took effect Tuesday afternoon. His departure leaves the race more open. Candidates such as Katie Porter and Tom Steyer now lead a fragmented field of Democratic hopefuls. The race aims to replace Gavin Newsom, who cannot run again due to term limits.
Swalwell’s exit may also affect Republican chances in the state. California has not elected a Republican to statewide office since 2006. However, political analysts say the controversy could shift voter dynamics. Republican candidate Steve Hilton, who has support from Donald Trump, could benefit from the divided Democratic field. California’s nonpartisan primary system allows the top two candidates to advance to the general election, regardless of party.
Following Swalwell’s resignation, Gov. Newsom scheduled a special election to fill his congressional seat. The election will take place on Aug. 18 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The outcome will determine who temporarily represents the district while investigations continue and the political landscape evolves.
