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 Democratic politician currently serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 14th congressional district since 2023. He previously represented the 15th district from 2013 to 2023. His district encompasses most of eastern Alameda County and a portion of central Contra Costa County in California.

Sections (5)

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

June 18, 2013: Video Recording on Vine

On June 18, 2013, Eric Swalwell used his mobile phone to record a video of his vote against a bill banning abortions after 20 weeks and uploaded it to Vine. This action spurred controversy.

June 2016: Use of Facebook Live and Periscope

In June 2016, Eric Swalwell used Facebook Live and Periscope to broadcast House Democrats' gun-violence sit-in.

2018: Seizure of Personal Data

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

December 2020: Swalwell Named in Axios Story About Suspected Chinese Spy

In December 2020, Eric Swalwell was mentioned in an Axios story regarding a suspected Chinese spy, Fang Fang (Christine Fang), who had been cultivating relationships with California politicians since at least 2012. The report stated Fang participated in fundraising for Swalwell's 2014 congressional campaign, met him at events, and helped place an intern in his office. Swalwell ended ties with Fang in 2015 after being briefed by U.S. intelligence.

December 2020: Axios Story on Fang Fang

In December 2020, an Axios story reported that Fang Fang had sexual relations with two Midwestern mayors but not Swalwell, though allegations persisted about him being a national security threat. Swalwell received death and rape threats against him and his family following the report.

December 2020: FBI Official states Swalwell was cooperative in investigation

In December 2020, an unnamed FBI official, in a San Francisco Chronicle article, stated that Swalwell was completely cooperative and not suspected of any wrongdoing. Swalwell suggested the Trump administration may have leaked information to the press because he was a vocal critic of Trump.

March 5, 2021: Civil Lawsuit Filed

On March 5, 2021, Eric Swalwell filed a civil lawsuit against Donald Trump, Donald Trump 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 Swalwell.

March 2022: Swalwell Proposes Measures Against Russia on CNN

In March 2022, Eric Swalwell proposed measures on CNN in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including closing the Russian embassy in the United States and expelling all Russian students. He received backlash but defended his stance.

May 2023: House Ethics Committee Closed Investigation Into Swalwell

In May 2023, the House Ethics Committee informed Swalwell that the investigation had been closed with no further action, while also cautioning members to be aware of potential foreign influence through gifts and interactions.