The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is investigating allegations that Representative Eric Swalwell hired a nanny who was not legally authorized to work in the United States. This inquiry is running concurrently with a separate investigation into sexual assault claims made by a former staffer.

DHS Investigation into Nanny Employment

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed its involvement in the matter on Sunday. The agency is gathering information regarding the accusations that Congressman Swalwell employed a Brazilian national as a nanny without proper work authorization.

USCIS has officially referred the case to DHS law enforcement agencies for a thorough investigation. This development was initially reported by Politico. As of the time of reporting, Representative Swalwell had not yet responded to requests for comment.

Broader Political Fallout and Expulsion Efforts

The news of the DHS probe emerges as Representative Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor. This decision follows increasing pressure from fellow House Democrats and other prominent figures.

Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna has announced plans to initiate a vote to expel Swalwell from Congress. A vote on this matter could potentially occur as early as the middle of the week.

Sexual Assault Allegations and Manhattan DA Probe

Adding to the complex situation, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office is also investigating Representative Swalwell. This investigation centers on sexual assault allegations brought forward by a former staffer.

Reports from The New York Post suggest the nanny continued working for Swalwell's family even after her work authorization expired in 2022. While Swalwell reportedly sponsored her green card application, she allegedly remained employed during the process.

Swalwell's Response and Former Staffer's Claims

Representative Swalwell has issued a strong denial of the accusations, calling them false and politically motivated. He highlighted his extensive background as a prosecutor and congressman, emphasizing his commitment to public service and the protection of women.

The sexual misconduct claims were first detailed by the San Francisco Chronicle. The former staffer, who remains unnamed in the report, alleged inappropriate encounters with Swalwell in 2019, including waking up in his hotel room with no memory of the night's events. She also claimed he sent inappropriate images and made requests for sexual acts.

Further allegations from the former staffer describe an incident in 2024 where she claims to have woken up with vaginal bleeding and bruises after a night out with Swalwell in New York. The Chronicle reported reviewing text messages from the woman in which she stated she was "sexually assaulted" by him.

Ongoing Investigations and Future Implications

The confluence of these investigations—the DHS probe into nanny employment, the Manhattan DA's inquiry into sexual assault allegations, and the potential expulsion vote—creates a significant challenge for Representative Swalwell.

The outcomes of these ongoing investigations are expected to have substantial consequences for Swalwell's career and reputation. Further details are anticipated as the inquiries progress.