Allegations Against Eric Swalwell: A Model's Disturbing Claims

Lonna Drewes has accused former Congressman Eric Swalwell of drugging and raping her in 2018, claims he denies. This revelation comes amid a series of allegations against him, prompting discussions about his resignation from Congress and the California gubernatorial race. Drewes plans to report her claims to authorities, stating she has evidence to support her case. The situation is evolving, with potential political ramifications as Swalwell's departure could affect the Democratic field and the Republican majority in Congress.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 23:19 IST

Serious Allegations Surface Against Former Congressman

A woman has come forward with accusations against former US Congressman Eric Swalwell, claiming he drugged and raped her in 2018, which he firmly denies. Lonna Drewes stated that she thought she had a friendship with Swalwell prior to the alleged incident, which reportedly occurred in West Hollywood. She asserts that he tampered with her drink at an event and subsequently assaulted her at a hotel. During a press conference in Beverly Hills, accompanied by her attorney Lisa Bloom, Drewes expressed her intention to report the matter to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, mentioning that she possesses evidence such as text messages and photographs. "I felt like I died. I did not agree to any sexual activity, and although I did not undergo a rape kit at that time, I informed those closest to me about the assault," she revealed.

Drewes, who was a model at the time, claimed that she initially thought Swalwell was helping her with a fashion software venture. After having a drink at an event, she went to his hotel under what she described as non-sexual circumstances. Once there, she alleged that he choked her, causing her to lose consciousness. She mentioned that the incident severely affected her mental health, leading her to cry frequently and experience a period of despair.

This allegation adds to a growing list of claims against Swalwell. Recently, multiple women have accused him of sexual misconduct, including another rape allegation currently being investigated by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office. Swalwell has denied these claims but expressed remorse to his family, staff, and constituents for past "mistakes in judgment." He has announced his intention to resign from Congress and has withdrawn from the race for California governor.

Republican Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna has stated she would propose a resolution to expel Swalwell if he does not resign. She later suggested that Swalwell seems to be preparing to leave his position, noting actions taken to transfer his staff. Expulsion from the US House of Representatives is uncommon, having only occurred a few times, with the most recent case involving George Santos in 2023. Swalwell's resignation could have significant political ramifications, narrowing the Democratic field for the governor's race, which includes candidates like Katie Porter and Tom Steyer, while Republican contenders include Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco. His departure would also slightly increase the Republican majority in Congress, although this could change with other developments, including calls for Tony Gonzales to resign.