In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through California politics, billionaire philanthropist Stephen Cloobeck has publicly severed ties with Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, ejecting the California lawmaker from his Beverly Hills residence and demanding the return of a $1 million donation that was earmarked for Swalwell’s now‑abandoned gubernatorial campaign.
Who Is Eric Swalwell and Why Is He in Trouble?
Eric Swalwell has served as the U.S. Representative for California’s 15th congressional district since 2013. A rising star within the Democratic Party, he was a front‑runner for the 2024 California governor’s race before abruptly withdrawing from the contest in late May. The decision came amid a wave of accusations that have plagued his career.
Multiple women—some of whom worked directly for Swalwell—have alleged that he engaged in sexual assault and other forms of misconduct. While Swalwell has consistently denied any wrongdoing, the allegations have prompted a criminal investigation. The accusations have also led to the suspension of his gubernatorial campaign and a flurry of public scrutiny.
Stephen Cloobeck’s Bold Move
Stephen Cloobeck, a well‑known philanthropist and former CEO of a major tech firm, has long been a supporter of progressive causes. However, his relationship with Swalwell soured dramatically after the congressman’s alleged misconduct came to light. In an interview with the California Post, Cloobeck revealed that he had to “go to hell” with Swalwell, stating that the congressman was never welcomed back into his Beverly Hills mansion.
According to Cloobeck, the mansion had been used as a backdrop for Swalwell’s video statement in which he denied the allegations before withdrawing from the governor’s race. The billionaire’s frustration culminated in a public demand for the return of the $1 million he had donated to the campaign. He also announced that he was “washing his hands of the Democrats” and has since aligned himself with the Libertarian Party.
What the $1 Million Was Meant to Cover
The donation Cloobeck made was intended to fund a significant portion of Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign, covering everything from staff salaries to advertising and travel expenses. With the campaign now defunct, the money has no clear destination. Cloobeck’s demand for repayment is rooted in the belief that the funds were misappropriated or, at the very least, no longer needed for their original purpose.
While the exact legal status of the donation remains uncertain, the public nature of the dispute has raised questions about campaign finance transparency and the responsibilities of high‑profile donors when a candidate’s political fortunes change.
Key Facts in a Quick‑Reference List
- Donor: Stephen Cloobeck, billionaire philanthropist.
- Recipient: Eric Swalwell, U.S. Representative and former gubernatorial candidate.
- Amount: $1 million earmarked for Swalwell’s 2024 California governor’s race.
- Issue: Swalwell faces multiple sexual assault allegations and a criminal probe.
- Action: Cloobeck expelled Swalwell from his Beverly Hills mansion and demands repayment.
- Political Shift: Cloobeck has moved from the Democratic Party to the Libertarian Party.
- Current Status: Swalwell’s campaign suspended; legal investigations ongoing.
The Fallout for Swalwell’s Campaign and the Democratic Party
Swalwell’s abrupt exit from
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