Thousands of California Democrats cast ballots for Eric Swalwell even though the disgraced ex-congressman’s zombie campaign for governor was suspended after allegations of rape and sexual assault.
With 76% of precincts partially reporting Tuesday night, Swalwell had drawn 16,865 votes, or 0.4%, in the crowded race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom, according to the California Secretary of State’s Office.
It’s unclear why so many Californians decided to light their ballots on fire, as the votes amounted to wasted trees in California’s top-two primary, especially after Swalwell suspended his campaign and resigned from Congress after a series of women — including former staffers — accused him of sexual misconduct.
Swalwell, an East Bay Democrat and once-prominent critic of President Trump, suspended his campaign after two bombshell reports by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN detailed disturbing allegations. Swalwell denied any wrongdoing while admitting to extramartial affairs, calling the incidents “mistakes in judgment.”
The revelations came too late for Swalwell’s name to be removed from the ballot, leaving voters with the option of no fewer than 60 other candidates. And still, almost 17,000 people seemed to have been unaware or unconcerned.
Swalwell did not respond to a request for comment.
After his career imploded, Swalwell installed himself as treasurer for his defunct campaign for governor, giving him full control of a $4 million money pot. Much of that money has since gone to paying his lawyers.
Republican former Fox News host Steve Hilton held a narrow lead Tuesday night as more returns came in, with the Republican drawing 1,029,950 votes, or 26.8%, while former Biden administration health secretary Xavier Becerra followed with 990,114 votes, or 25.8%.
Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer trailed in third with 756,013 votes, or 19.7%, while Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco remained well back with 438,344 votes, or 11.4%.
Former congresswoman Katie Porter was next with 193,442 votes, or 5.0%, followed by San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan with 164,655 votes, or 4.3%, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa with 53,177 votes, or 1.4%.
Former congresswoman Katie Porter had 191,040 votes, or 5.1%, followed by San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan with 163,135 votes, or 4.3%.
Results remain will continue to be counted before the election is certified July 10.
