In a scandal that has rattled Washington’s political community, former California congressman Eric Swalwell is facing fresh accusations that he used campaign money to pay for more than 100 alcohol deliveries over a four‑year period. The allegations, reported by the New York Post, claim that these purchases were made directly from his campaign’s bank account rather than from his personal funds. The revelations come on the heels of Swalwell’s abrupt resignation from Congress last week amid a separate sexual‑misconduct investigation, adding a new layer of controversy to an already fraught political career.
Background on Eric Swalwell
Eric Swalwell served as the U.S. Representative for California’s 15th congressional district from 2013 until his resignation in early 2024. Known for his tech‑savvy approach and strong advocacy for cybersecurity and infrastructure, Swalwell quickly rose through the ranks of the Democratic Party. However, his tenure has been marred by a series of controversies, most recently a sexual‑misconduct case that led to his departure from Congress. The new allegations of misusing campaign funds add to a growing list of questions about his judgment and integrity.
Allegations of Misusing Campaign Funds
According to the New York Post, Swalwell’s campaign filings reveal a pattern of alcohol orders that total more than 100 deliveries between 2020 and 2024. The charges, which were billed to the campaign’s account, allegedly cover a wide range of beverages—from craft beers to premium spirits—purchased through various delivery services. The report notes that the expenses were not reimbursed by Swalwell himself, suggesting that the money came directly from donors’ contributions.
Campaign finance law is clear: money raised from donors must be used for legitimate political purposes—such as staff salaries, campaign events, advertising, and voter outreach. Personal indulgences, including alcohol purchases, are prohibited. If the allegations hold true, they would represent a serious breach of federal election law and could trigger investigations by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and the Department of Justice.
The Pattern of Alcohol Purchases
What makes the case particularly troubling is the sheer volume and consistency of the orders. The filings indicate that the deliveries were not sporadic but occurred regularly, painting a picture of an “open bar” funded by campaign contributions. Some of the charges even coincide with trips to Las Vegas, a city known for its nightlife, where the alleged purchases may have turned into extended parties.
Below is a concise list of the key points that emerge from the investigation:
- Over 100 alcohol delivery charges recorded between 2020 and 2024.
- All expenses billed to the campaign’s bank account.
- No evidence of personal reimbursement by Swalwell.
- Several charges aligned with Las Vegas trips.
- Campaign finance rules prohibit personal use of donated funds.
These facts suggest a systematic misuse of










