Another woman accuses Swalwell of rape, saying he drugged her in 2018

April 14, 2026

Former Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell faces mounting sexual misconduct allegations, with another woman coming forward Tuesday to accuse him of drugging and raping her in 2018. Lonna Drewes, represented by attorney Lisa Bloom, claims Swalwell assaulted her during what she believed was a friendship, and she plans to file a police report with Los Angeles police. Swalwell, who has resigned from Congress and withdrawn from California's gubernatorial race, denies all allegations through his attorney, calling them a politically motivated attack.

Who is affected

Eric Swalwell (former Democratic lawmaker)
Lonna Drewes (accuser alleging 2018 rape)
Four other women who made allegations last week
Annika Albrecht and Ally Sammarco (accusers who spoke about unwanted explicit photos)
An unnamed former staff member involved in Manhattan DA investigation
Cheyenne Hunt (Democratic influencer who publicized accusations)
More than 30 women who contacted Hunt alleging misconduct
Swalwell's wife
Congress members and staff
Tony Gonzales (Texas Republican who also resigned)

What action is being taken

A congressional ethics inquiry is underway into Swalwell
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is investigating Swalwell
Lisa Bloom is planning to file a police report with the Los Angeles Police Department
The FBI has sought to speak with Swalwell
The House ethics committee is taking up inquiries into both Swalwell and Tony Gonzales
Anna Paulina Luna is providing information to the FBI

Why it matters

This case has created a "MeToo moment" on Capitol Hill, forcing lawmakers to confront sexual misconduct within their ranks. The pattern of allegations from multiple women, combined with Swalwell's position of political power and his role as a congressman, highlights the potential abuse of authority and the barriers victims face when coming forward against powerful figures. The situation has prompted broader discussions about accountability and vigilance regarding misconduct in Congress, as evidenced by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments about lawmakers needing to be vigilant about sexual misconduct.

What's next

Lisa Bloom plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles Police Department regarding Drewes' allegations
The House ethics committee plans to continue its inquiries
The Manhattan District Attorney's investigation is ongoing
Anna Paulina Luna will provide information to the FBI

Read full article from source: BBC