Swalwell exits California governor race

Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has abruptly ended his bid for the California governorship amid a growing scandal involving multiple allegations of nonconsensual sexual encounters.

The allegations, first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN, led to a swift withdrawal of support from key Democratic allies and staffers.

Swalwell has denied the claims but offered an apology for what he termed "mistakes in judgment" in his past.

His exit leaves the race for Gavin Newsom's successor in disarray just weeks before primary ballots are issued, while he also faces potential expulsion from the House of Representatives.