As congressional candidates prepare for upcoming elections, they face the challenge of deciding how to handle endorsements and contributions from former congressman Eric Swalwell. Once a rising political figure, Swalwell is now embroiled in controversy following allegations of sexual assault by several women, which has made him a contentious figure.

In light of these allegations, Swalwell’s political action committee has quietly removed references to him from its website. The Future Forum PAC, which Swalwell launched in 2015, was established to nurture and support emerging Democratic leaders, particularly from younger demographics.

Swalwell had built a reputation for engaging younger voters. During his unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 2020, he gained attention for urging then-candidate Joe Biden to “pass the torch” to a new generation, highlighting his focus on youth involvement in politics.

Previously, the PAC’s website prominently acknowledged Swalwell’s role in its inception, as evidenced by a screenshot obtained by The California Post. Currently, any mention of him has been erased. The California Post has sought comments from the PAC regarding these changes.

Despite the controversy, over 50 Democratic candidates continue to display endorsements from the PAC. However, a few have begun to return the financial support provided by the committee, while others have remained silent on the unfolding situation surrounding Swalwell.

A spokesperson for the Republican National Committee criticized the situation, stating, “Democrats are pretending to condemn Eric Swalwell while still capitalizing on his endorsement and financial backing. This behavior betrays millions of constituents and women, as it suggests a willingness to overlook serious allegations of rape and sexual abuse for personal gain.”

Rebecca Cooke, a congressional candidate in Wisconsin, renounced Swalwell’s endorsement. She “was appalled” by the allegations, she said, and will donate the $1,000 she received from the PAC this election cycle to food and shelter charities.

In Swalwell’s own California delegation, U.S. Rep. Dave Min said Monday he only just discovered money from Swalwell, including the PAC’s $4,000 contribution to his reelection campaign.

“Given the seriousness of the allegations made against him, I am not comfortable with this, so I have donated this contribution to Waymakers, an Orange County non-profit that assists survivors of sexual assault,” he said on X.

California Congressman Derek Tran took $4,500 of the PAC’s money and reportedly plans to donate Swalwell’s contributions.

Questions linger for candidates who have not said anything regarding Swalwell or the PAC.

Here’s the latest on the allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell

Arizona candidate JoAnna Mendoza’s website still touts the Future Forum endorsement, and records show a $1,000 amount from the PAC.

She seemingly ignored, when approached, an influencer’s questions on what she would do with the money and endorsement in a video posted Tuesday. The Post reached out for comment.

Around a dozen candidates have already pledged to return or donate Swalwell’s money, Politico reported. According to campaign finance records, the PAC gave $96,500 to 46 candidates in this election cycle.

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