Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Multiple Harassment Claims as Aide Describes 2024 Capitol Hill 'Minefield'
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 16
Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Multiple Harassment Claims as Aide Describes 2024 Capitol Hill 'Minefield'
7 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 16
Last month’s resignation by former Rep. Eric Swalwell followed multiple accusations of sexual assault and harassment, which he denies.
Jillian McLaughlin, who worked for Swalwell in 2024 as his driver and assistant, said he invited her to Miami, urged her to join late-night drinking and sent personal texts that left her feeling trapped.
McLaughlin said there was no physical relationship, but the experience drove her out of Washington and reinforced her view that Capitol Hill was a toxic workplace for young women.
Her account fits a broader pattern aides and former staff described as a sexual-harassment "minefield" shaped by alcohol, proximity to power and loyalty networks in Congress.
Will new workplace reforms finally end the cycle of harassment on Capitol Hill?
Can celebrity-style journalism truly hold powerful politicians accountable for their actions?