Chair’s Message Urging Support of Survivors of Sexual Assault and Harassment

Fellow Democrats, 

It has been nearly two years since I issued my first “Chair’s Message” announcing the formation of our Special Committee on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment, which created our first of its kind Code of Conduct. I re-read this message in light of the allegations that have come out against gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell and was struck by this passage:

As the Party Chair, I believe it is the DCCC’s responsibility to lead on basic issues of safety, security, and dignity in our political spaces. For far too long women’s voices have been overlooked as gender based assault and discrimination have run rampant in our country.

It is disturbing how much this statement still rings true, as we hear from survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment by Cesar Chavez and now gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell. While additional details will continue to emerge, we must continue to hold space for survivors’ stories and proactively ensure that our political spaces are safe, that we watch out for those in our communities who may be vulnerable either because of situation or status, and that we continue to hold accountable those that would abuse their power in an organization or elective office. 

San Francisco Democrats have led and fostered leaders for many generations. We continue to lead with our first-of-its-kind Code of Conduct on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment. I have shared it with the other California County Chairs and encouraged them to develop their own policies to protect political spaces from this type of unacceptable conduct.

While details will continue to come to light in an investigation regarding the allegations against Eric Swalwell, I do not have confidence in his ability to campaign effectively nor unite California Democrats with the rapidly approaching primary in June. I urge Eric Swalwell to end his campaign and exit the governor’s race immediately. This request is not a judgment of guilt, but a recognition of the responsibility we share to uphold the values of our party and the confidence of the voters we serve.

We remain committed to building a Democratic Party that reflects the highest ideals of justice, accountability, and leadership.

In Solidarity,

Nancy Tung
Chair, San Francisco Democratic Party