PHOENIX — U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego is publicly cutting ties with former ally Eric Swalwell, saying he was misled and now regrets defending him before learning of serious sexual assault allegations.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Gallego addressed growing questions about his past relationship with Swalwell, acknowledging that their personal connection influenced his earlier response. He said that closeness led him to initially misjudge the situation and expressed strong regret over that decision.
The shift comes after a former aide accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her twice while she was too intoxicated to give consent, according to a report by the San Francisco Chronicle. Swalwell has denied the allegations but has since announced he will step down from Congress.
Gallego had initially reacted to the claims on social media but quickly reversed course as more information emerged. He withdrew his endorsement and described the alleged actions as unacceptable.
During his remarks on Capitol Hill, Gallego said he had no prior knowledge of any alleged misconduct. While he had heard rumors in the past about Swalwell’s behavior, he said he was led to believe they were politically motivated attacks and not credible.
He also noted that Swalwell had drawn comparisons between the allegations and past political attacks Gallego himself had faced, which contributed to his initial skepticism.
Now, Gallego is emphasizing support for those who have come forward, describing them as brave and deserving of justice.
He also pushed back against what he described as attempts to use the situation to spread misinformation about him and his family.
The controversy marks a sharp and personal break between the two politicians. Gallego described the situation as painful, particularly given the impact on those involved and the broader fallout.
Swalwell’s resignation comes as he had been viewed as a potential candidate in California’s upcoming governor’s race, a contest now likely to shift in light of recent developments.
