The Facts

Rep. Eric Swalwell is facing serious sexual-assault allegations from a former employee, as revealed in a bombshell report from Alexei Koseff and Sophia Bollag at The Chronicle. Other reporting describes one allegation as possible rape. Dozens of top Democratic officials have called for him to drop out of the race. Swalwell has denied wrongdoing.

The Context

The allegations have already reshaped the California governor's race: campaign staff resigned, Swalwell's endorsements collapsed, and rivals publicly said he should leave. On Polymarket, odds for Swalwell winning the governors race collapsed from 60% to under 4%.

The GrowSF Take

Swalwell should drop out. A candidate credibly accused of sexually assaulting an employee, and possibly raping her, should not continue a campaign for higher office while asking voters to trust his judgment and character.

Last week we endorsed Matt Mahan for governor, and we think voters looking for a pragmatic and effective leader should vote for him.