Billionaire Stephen Cloobeck, founder of Diamond Resorts, has severed his relationship with Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., following sexual misconduct allegations that led to Swalwell suspending his campaign for California governor [1]. Cloobeck, who has supported Swalwell since 2017, confirmed in interviews with the New York Post and Fox 11 Los Angeles that he is evicting Swalwell from his California mansion and demanding the return of $1 million after the allegations surfaced [1].
Cloobeck has contributed $23,400 to Swalwell’s campaigns between 2017 and 2023 and provided gifts, including a $39,900 flight to Nice, France, as disclosed in congressional records [1]. In response to the controversy, Cloobeck announced a dramatic shift in his political allegiance, stating, "I am no longer supporting Eric. F---ing tell everyone I’m a libertarian. F--- you, Democrat Party. I’m a libertarian now," and later adding, "I am now a Republican" [1]. He also indicated he may cut ties with more members of the Democratic Party [1].
The allegations against Swalwell were detailed in a San Francisco Chronicle report, which included accounts of his alleged pursuit of intoxicated women, pressuring employees into intimate situations, and requesting explicit images from female contacts [1]. The controversy intensified after Cheyenne Hunt, a former Capitol Hill staffer, circulated testimony from women accusing Swalwell of sexual assault [1]. Prominent Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, called for Swalwell to exit the race, leading to his announcement: "I am suspending my campaign for governor. I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that’s my fight, not the campaign’s" [1].
Cloobeck did not immediately respond to questions about whether he would support a Republican candidate in the California governor's race [1]. The developments have caused significant political fallout, with a major donor publicly switching party affiliation and withdrawing financial and personal support from a high-profile candidate [1].
CONCLUSION
The allegations against Eric Swalwell have resulted in the loss of key financial and personal backing from billionaire Stephen Cloobeck, who has also announced a shift in his political allegiance. This event has led to Swalwell suspending his gubernatorial campaign and signals potential broader repercussions for Democratic fundraising and support in California.