Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) on Tuesday explicitly denied that he appears in a viral video collage alongside Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA). The footage, which has circulated widely on social media, purportedly shows intimate scenes involving the California congressman and another individual.
Gallego, who was elected to the Senate in 2024, addressed the rumors during a press briefing on Capitol Hill. "This is a great example of the lies," Gallego told reporters. "No, I was not sitting next to him."
The denial comes at a time of extreme political turbulence for Swalwell. On Monday, the seven-term representative announced his intention to resign from the House following a series of sexual assault and harassment allegations from several women.
The relationship between Gallego and Swalwell was once considered one of the strongest alliances in the Democratic Party. Gallego notably served as the national chair for Swalwell’s 2020 presidential bid.
Swalwell frequently described Gallego as his "best friend in the world." However, that public camaraderie has dissolved in recent days as multiple accusers have come forward with serious accounts of misconduct against the congressman.
Gallego has aggressively distanced himself from his former ally. He recently withdrew his endorsement of Swalwell’s suspended bid for California governor, citing the indefensible nature of the allegations reported by the press.
The Arizona senator has gone further, calling for Swalwell’s immediate expulsion from Congress before his resignation takes full effect. Gallego expressed "shock" and "upset" at the reports, stating that survivors deserve to be heard with respect.
President Donald Trump’s administration is reportedly monitoring the situation as the House Ethics Committee continues its investigation into Swalwell’s conduct. Trump has used social media to criticize the developments, often linking them to broader ethics concerns in Washington.
Swalwell’s office has not commented on the specific video collage or Gallego's recent statements. The outgoing representative has maintained that some allegations are false but apologized for "mistakes in judgment" made in his past.
The fallout from the scandal has sent ripples through both political parties. Lawmakers are now weighing the implications of the viral media on congressional decorum and the future of the Democratic caucus leadership.