A prominent billionaire has claimed he recently compelled Rep. Eric Swalwell to leave his Beverly Hills residence, citing a severe breach of trust following serious sexual misconduct allegations that the congressman firmly denies.
In an interview with FOX 11’s Matthew Seedorff, Stephen Cloobeck, a former major donor and supporter of Swalwell, expressed his frustration and disappointment regarding the accusations. “Mad? I’m no longer a Democrat. I’m now a Libertarian Republican, because that’s what a blue-collar Democrat used to be,” he said.
Political Ramifications
The unfolding allegations have sparked immediate political repercussions. Once a key figure in the race for California governor, Swalwell has since stepped down from his candidacy and resigned from Congress altogether. Just days prior, he released a video from Cloobeck’s home in which he denied the allegations. However, as more details emerge, the pressure on Swalwell has only intensified.
Cloobeck described a tense confrontation, stating, “You busted the trust. I’m disappointed and disgusted — get out of here.” The political landscape for the gubernatorial race has suddenly shifted, with various candidates now hustling to capture Swalwell’s former supporters before the upcoming primary.
Independent political strategist Luis Alvarado remarked, “It creates a void Democrats haven’t been able to figure out in the last six months — and now they’re going to have to figure it out in the next six days.” Meanwhile, a former senior communications adviser for Swalwell conveyed their shock, emphasizing that voters deserve leaders with integrity and moral character.
Broader Concerns and Personal Fallout
Cloobeck didn’t hold back when discussing the wider implications of the situation in Washington, stating, “You don’t sleep with people you work with — you don’t do it. And I’m telling you, there are so many more in D.C. that need to be looked at.” As the controversy unfolds, the window for the June primary election narrows, with ballots expected to be mailed out soon.
When reflecting on his relationship with Swalwell, Cloobeck’s response was pointed: “Eric who? Is that clear? Don’t bust the trust — you don’t exist in my life.” Meanwhile, Swalwell has publicly acknowledged his “deep regrets for mistakes in judgment” and offered apologies to his family, constituents, and staff, while maintaining his innocence regarding the most serious accusations. Cloobeck, who once briefly ran for governor before endorsing Swalwell, admitted to FOX 11 that he now regrets those decisions.
