Two women accusing Eric Swalwell of sexual misconduct say they spoke out to stop what they believe could have been decades more of alleged abuse.
Ally Sammarco and Annika Albrecht told CBS News they broke their silence to prevent “future victims,” as the seven-term Democrat abruptly resigned from Congress and exited California’s gubernatorial race.
“He thought he was untouchable,” Sammarco said. “He acted with total impunity. He never thought that the consequences of his actions would follow him.”
She argued their decision to come forward may have halted long-term harm.
“I think we just prevented another 30 to 40 years, potentially, of him harming people if he were to stay in Congress,” she said.
Sammarco added that a successful run for governor could have expanded his power — and, in her view, the risk.
“As governor, he would have had even more power and more authority,” she said. “And he would have felt vindicated too… that he could run for higher office.”
Albrecht, speaking publicly for the first time, said accountability remains unfinished.
“Justice wouldn’t be served until he can’t ever harm a woman ever again — and he has faced the consequences for the women that he has harmed,” she said.
The accusations are part of a broader wave of claims that surfaced in recent days, with multiple women alleging misconduct spanning years. Allegations include inappropriate messages and explicit content sent via social media platforms.
Swalwell’s resignation caps a rapid political collapse for a once-rising Democratic figure.
Despite stepping down, he has forcefully denied the most serious accusations.
“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past,” Swalwell said in a statement.
“I will fight the serious false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make.”
The competing narratives — accusations of long-term misconduct versus firm denials — now set the stage for what could be a prolonged legal and political battle.
The fallout isn’t over. Not by a long shot.
Watch the clip below:
“We’re not walking away from this fight”: Two accusers of Congressman Eric Swalwell are sharing their accusations and decisions to come forward.
Annika Albrecht, Ally Sammarco and influencer Cheyenne Hunt, who helped get their stories out, spoke exclusively with CBS News’… pic.twitter.com/7kEf41jAb2
— CBS News (@CBSNews) April 14, 2026
