United States of America

FBI Raids Swalwell Over Assault and Spy Allegations

Is Swalwell's scandal a Democratic failure to protect national security or a Republican weaponization of serious allegations?

Published AUG 20

FBI Raids Swalwell Over Assault and Spy Allegations

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Above: Eric Swalwel on Jan. 6. Image credit: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images

The Spin

Democratic narrative

At least five women have accused Swalwell of sexual assault and harassment, and the FBI raiding his home and seizing his devices shows just how serious these allegations are. It must be noted that national Democrats acted decisively to condemn Swalwell, and the investigation must now run its course. Turning this into a broader smear against Democrats is shameful weaponization of this case.

CalMatters guardian

Republican narrative

The sexual assault allegations are serious, but the Chinese spy scandal is the bigger outrage, one that predates the new allegations. Documents now confirm Swalwell had a relationship with a suspected Chinese operative who routed illegal foreign campaign funds, all while he sat on the House Intelligence Committee. Democrats kept him on that committee even after leadership was briefed on the national security risk.

The Washington Times Office of U.S. Senator Rick Scott