Southern California Woman Accuses Rep. Eric Swalwell of 2018 Sexual Assault

A Southern California woman has come forward alleging that Rep. Eric Swalwell drugged and raped her in 2018, joining several others who have accused the congressman of sexual misconduct. Lonna Drewes made the announcement at a news conference in Beverly Hills, accompanied by her attorneys, Lisa Bloom and Arick Fudali. She stated that she refrained from speaking out earlier due to concerns about her budding political career.

Drewes recounted meeting Swalwell on three occasions in 2018. He invited her to two public events, offering to introduce her to individuals who could assist with her software company and political aspirations. At the time, both were in committed relationships, and Drewes emphasized that she viewed their relationship as strictly platonic.

On their third meeting, Drewes believes Swalwell spiked her drink, as she became extremely intoxicated after consuming only one glass of wine. She alleges that he then took her to his hotel room, where he assaulted her. "He raped me and he choked me," she said. "While he was choking me I lost consciousness and I thought I died. I did not consent to any sexual activity."

Drewes is the fifth woman to accuse Swalwell of sexual misconduct. Previous allegations include a former staffer who claimed he assaulted her twice—once in 2019 and again in 2024—and three other women who reported unsolicited explicit messages or sexual assault.

In response to these allegations, Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress and suspended his gubernatorial campaign. He has denied the accusations but acknowledged making "mistakes in judgment." "I will fight the serious, false allegations against me," he stated. "However, I must take ownership for the mistakes I did make."

The pattern described by the accusers involves agreeing to meet Swalwell for drinks, becoming unexpectedly intoxicated, and waking up in his hotel room with little to no memory of the events. The House Ethics Committee has initiated an investigation into these allegations, and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office is also conducting a probe.