Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) denied sexual harassment accusations against female staffers during a Sacramento town hall event, asserting the claims were false and baseless amid growing controversy ahead of California’s primary election.

The California Democrat, currently running for governor, faced direct questions about his conduct with female staff at the gathering. “No, no, it’s false,” Swalwell stated. “And also some of the allegations I’ve seen—there have been NDAs in the office? Never. There’s never been an allegation and there’s never been a settlement.” He emphasized his stance as the election approaches, noting they were 27 days before primary ballots would be mailed.

Cheyenne Hunt, executive director of Gen-Z for Change, revealed she has worked with multiple women preparing to share allegations of sexual harassment and abuse by Swalwell, describing patterns including “uncomfortable comments,” “DMs and Snapchat messages,” and potential criminal conduct. Hunt stressed the urgency of speaking before mainstream media coverage, stating: “Targeting employees, interns, and fans. Acting as a mentor just to exploit that power.” She confirmed involvement with legal counsel and an investigative team but declined to disclose specific names or groups.

Micah Beasley, Swalwell’s spokesperson, countered Hunt’s claims by highlighting a lack of controversy in Swalwell’s 13-year congressional career: “In 13 years, no one in Eric Swalwell’s Congressional office has ever been asked to sign an NDA. Ever. In 13 years, not a single ethics complaint by any staff in his office or any other office has ever been lodged.”

Democratic strategist Bhavik Lathia similarly urged colleagues to take the allegations seriously, stating: “Eric Swalwell cannot be our nominee. There is going to be a lot more coming out soon.” Hunt rebuked Swalwell’s characterization of her accusers as collaborating with MAGA conspiracy theorists, calling such claims “morally repugnant” and affirming survivors’ right to be heard.