FBI raids ex-US Representative Swalwell’s home amid sexual misconduct probe

What the report says

Federal agents raided the Washington, DC, home of former US Representative Eric Swalwell as part of an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct, according to Al Jazeera, citing US media reports. The FBI also reportedly seized Swalwell’s electronic devices at San Francisco airport over the weekend. The bureau did not comment when contacted by Al Jazeera.

The reported search comes months after Swalwell left Congress in April and withdrew from California’s governor’s race. Al Jazeera noted that one woman has publicly accused him of sexual assault during his time in office, while four others have said he engaged in other forms of misconduct. Swalwell, a Democrat known for his sharp criticism of President Donald Trump, rose to national attention during Trump’s first term and took part in impeachment proceedings after the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

The article also places the raid in the broader context of other scrutiny surrounding Swalwell. He previously faced questions over a relationship with Christine Fang, whom US authorities believed to be a Chinese spy. Swalwell said he ended the relationship after being warned by federal agents, and a House Ethics Committee review was later closed without action.

Al Jazeera reported that the latest FBI action came while ballots were still being counted in the special election for Swalwell’s vacated congressional seat.