The FBI conducted a raid on the residence of former US Representative Eric Swalwell in Washington, DC, as part of an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct allegations. Federal agents also seized electronic devices belonging to Swalwell at San Francisco airport over the weekend, according to multiple media reports. The FBI declined to provide comment on the operation.
Swalwell departed from Congress in April following the emergence of accusations against him. One woman has come forward publicly with allegations of sexual assault during his time as a legislator, while four additional individuals have reported other forms of sexual misconduct. Following these allegations, Swalwell withdrew from California’s gubernatorial race, where he had been considered a leading contender.
The former representative has faced additional scrutiny concerning a previous association with Christine Fang, identified by US authorities as a Chinese intelligence operative. In 2023, Swalwell was removed from the House Intelligence Committee due to this relationship, though he stated he ended it after federal agents notified him of security concerns. A House Ethics Committee investigation into the matter concluded without any disciplinary action.
Swalwell gained prominence during the earlier Trump administration while serving as a Democratic prosecutor in impeachment proceedings related to the January 6 riot at the US Capitol. The White House released FBI documents this week pertaining to Swalwell’s connection to Fang. Swalwell’s legal representative characterized the document release as retaliation against a vocal critic of the current administration, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The administration has stated intentions to pursue accountability against political opponents, with several facing Department of Justice action.
A special election is currently underway to fill Swalwell’s congressional seat, with election officials continuing to process ballots. Progressive candidate Aisha Wahab held a narrow lead of approximately 300 votes over fellow Democrat Melissa Hernandez as of the latest count.
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