Swalwell Cancels Palm Desert Town Hall Amid Denial of Misconduct Allegations

Eric Swalwell has canceled a scheduled town hall in Palm Desert along with a planned in-studio interview at NBC Palm Springs, following online allegations of sexual misconduct involving female staffers—claims he strongly denies.

According to his campaign, the decision comes amid what they describe as politically motivated rumors. In a statement shared with CNN, Swalwell’s team said the allegations are surfacing because he is considered a leading Democratic contender in California’s gubernatorial primary, making him a target for opponents.

The online accusations suggest multiple women may come forward with misconduct claims and allege that nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) have kept them silent. However, Swalwell’s campaign firmly disputes those claims, stating that no staff member has ever been required to sign an NDA and that the congressman has never faced an ethics complaint.

Efforts to obtain additional comment from Swalwell’s team are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the race for California governor continues to take shape. A recent poll conducted between March 17 and April 5 shows Republican candidates Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton tied at the top with 14 percent support each. On the Democratic side, Swalwell trails behind alongside Tom Steyer and Katie Porter.

California’s primary election is set for June 2, with the top two finishers advancing to the general election in November.