Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Eric Swalwell

Public opinion and media debates around Eric Swalwell—discover key moments of controversy.

Eric Swalwell is an American lawyer and politician. A member of the Democratic Party, he currently serves as the U.S. representative for California's 14th congressional district, a position he has held since 2023. Prior to this, he represented the 15th district from 2013 to 2023. His district is primarily located in eastern Alameda County.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

June 18, 2013: Video of vote against abortion bill

On June 18, 2013, Eric Swalwell used his mobile phone to record a video of his vote against a bill that would ban abortions after 20 weeks and uploaded it to Vine.

2018: Personal data seized by the DOJ

In 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice under the Trump administration seized Eric Swalwell's personal data.

December 2020: Axios story on suspected Chinese spy Fang Fang

In December 2020, an Axios story reported that Eric Swalwell was among California politicians cultivated by a suspected Chinese spy, Fang Fang. Fang participated in fundraising for Swalwell's 2014 congressional bid, met him at events, and placed an intern in his office. Swalwell ended ties with Fang in 2015 after a U.S. intelligence briefing. The report stated that Swalwell was not accused of impropriety.

December 2020: FBI official comments on Swalwell investigation

In December 2020, an unnamed FBI official stated that Eric Swalwell was completely cooperative and not suspected of wrongdoing in the investigation related to Fang Fang. Swalwell suggested the information leak came from the Trump administration due to his criticism of Trump.

December 2020: Allegations persist about Swalwell being a national security threat

In December 2020, despite reports clarifying that Fang Fang had not had sexual relations with Swalwell, allegations persisted that he was a national security threat. Following these reports, Swalwell received death and rape threats against him and his family.

March 5, 2021: Filed lawsuit against Trump and others

On March 5, 2021, Eric Swalwell filed a civil lawsuit against Trump, Trump's son Donald Jr., Representative Mo Brooks, and Rudy Giuliani, seeking damages for their alleged role in inciting the January 6 attack on the Capitol.

April 2021: House Ethics Committee opens investigation into Swalwell

In April 2021, the House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into Eric Swalwell.

May 2023: House Ethics Committee closes Swalwell investigation

In May 2023, the House Ethics Committee closed its investigation into Eric Swalwell without further action, cautioning members about potential foreign influence through gifts and interactions.