Billionaire businessman Stephen Cloobeck has cut ties with embattled Rep. Eric Swalwell, booting him from his Beverly Hills mansion and pulling financial support just before the congressman suspended his campaign for California governor.
“I am no longer supporting Eric,” Cloobeck said in an interview, unleashing a blunt political pivot. “Tell everyone I’m a libertarian… I’m a libertarian now.”
The dramatic split marks a stunning reversal for a donor who had poured more than $1 million into an independent effort backing Swalwell — and who recently referred to the congressman as a “little brother.”
The fallout comes fast and furious.
Swalwell’s campaign imploded after allegations surfaced Friday accusing him of rape, sexual assault, and other misconduct involving multiple women. He has denied the claims and says he will fight them.
But politically, the damage was immediate.
Endorsements vanished. Calls for resignation mounted. A criminal investigation loomed. And now, one of his biggest financial backers has walked away.
Cloobeck confirmed Swalwell is no longer staying at his estate — where the congressman had recently filmed a video denying the accusations.
“I have a lot of people who stay at my house,” Cloobeck said, describing his property as a “dream home” he shares generously.
Still, the billionaire made clear the relationship has changed.
He said he is now consulting attorneys to determine whether he can claw back the $1 million he contributed to support Swalwell’s run.
More over at The New York Post:
Billionaire kicks Eric Swalwell out of his mansion and wants $1M back after heinous sex allegations https://t.co/Aw0yLVZB4T pic.twitter.com/TJTR6fjfdI
— New York Post (@nypost) April 13, 2026
