Eric Swalwell’s political career has taken a dramatic downturn, exacerbated by a fiery confrontation with his once-steadfast financial supporter, billionaire Stephen Cloobeck. In a confrontational last meeting, Cloobeck reportedly ordered Swalwell to leave his home, using strong language to express his disapproval.
This unfolding saga has seen the former Democratic frontrunner for California governor suspend his campaign and announce his resignation from Congress following allegations of sexual misconduct. Four women have come forward with accusations, including an ex-staffer who alleges that Swalwell raped her while intoxicated during a charity gala in April 2024.
“I can no longer be associated with someone who exploits women,” Cloobeck stated emphatically. “I stand firmly in support of women’s rights.”
The New York Post has verified that Swalwell sought refuge in Cloobeck’s opulent $26 million Beverly Hills mansion as the scandal erupted. It was from this very residence, spanning 9,700 square feet, that Swalwell recorded a vehement denial of the allegations against him.
Swalwell, who has been married to Brittney Watts since 2016 and is a father of three, was previously described by Cloobeck as a “gentleman” during his stays. According to the billionaire, Swalwell would often express gratitude by sending pastries and cookies shortly after his visits.
However, this cordial relationship soured rapidly as bipartisan calls intensified for Swalwell to step down from his congressional position.
Cloobeck offered new details into those final moments, telling The Post that Swalwell “apologized” before the billionaire “ripped him a new “f—king a—hole.”
“I was with my counsel and we had a chat with him, I just told him: ‘you busted the trust,’” Cloobeck said. “I’m shocked, I’m disturbed and get the f—k out of here. Then I walked away and that was it.”
Cloobeck also confirmed to The Post that it was his lawyer who initially defended Swalwell on CNN Friday night to refute the allegations.
“All he did was help Eric out going on CNN. He was advised to go on himself, he didn’t want to do it and I asked my counsel to do it,” Cloobeck said.
But the goodwill and funding has now dried up, as Cloobeck vowed to provide “zero financial help” moving forward.
The billionaire also denied he or his business entities ever issued non-disclosure agreements on Swalwell’s behalf — something that his accusers said prevented them from speaking out sooner.
“There were no NDA’s by any of my entities for any of these women,” he said.
Swalwell, who promised to “fight the serious, false allegation made against me,” also faces a sexual assault investigation from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
