Federal investigators confronted former Representative Eric Swalwell at San Francisco International Airport on August 15 as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against the California Democrat.
Video footage shows several FBI agents approaching Swalwell shortly after his plane landed, speaking with him briefly before escorting him to a private area of the airport. The former congressman, dressed in black sweatpants, sneakers, and a hooded sweatshirt, was stopped without incident.
Sources familiar with the law enforcement operation confirmed that federal agents seized Swalwell’s cellular phone and laptop computer during the encounter. The electronic devices were surrendered without resistance.
One day following the airport confrontation, federal investigators executed search warrants at Swalwell’s residence in Washington, D.C. The searches stem from allegations that emerged as Swalwell prepared to compete in California’s gubernatorial election.
A former staff member has accused Swalwell of sexual assault on two separate occasions when she was intoxicated. Swalwell has categorically denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
The accusations prompted Swalwell to withdraw from the California governor’s race and subsequently resign his congressional seat. In April 2026, he addressed the matter publicly, stating his opposition to what he characterized as hasty expulsion proceedings.
“Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong,” Swalwell said. “But it is also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”
The former lawmaker has maintained that the allegations were politically motivated, designed specifically to eliminate him from what was anticipated to be a highly competitive Democratic gubernatorial primary. Swalwell has indicated he may pursue defamation litigation against his accusers.
This investigation comes amid separate revelations concerning Swalwell’s past associations. Newly declassified FBI documents from last month revealed that Swalwell acknowledged to federal investigators having engaged in a sexual relationship with Christine Fang, identified by authorities as a Chinese intelligence operative who assisted with fundraising for his congressional campaign.
According to the documents, Swalwell told investigators he had “physical relations” with Fang “on a handful of occasions” after their initial meeting in 2012. He maintained to authorities that he was unaware of any Chinese influence operation being conducted by Fang at the time of their relationship. No criminal charges were filed against Swalwell in connection with that matter.
The current investigation represents a significant development for a congressman who once served on the House Intelligence Committee and maintained a prominent national profile. The outcome of the federal probe remains uncertain as investigators continue their work.
The matter underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the thoroughness with which federal law enforcement agencies pursue investigations involving former public officials.
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