Lonna Drewes alleges Eric Swalwell of sexual assault adding to misconduct claims

Lonna Drewes has accused former US congressman Eric Swalwell of rape, adding to a growing list of allegations against him.

Speaking on Tuesday, Drewes said she had been reluctant to come forward because of Swalwell’s “political power”. She alleged that he drugged and raped her in a hotel room in 2018.

“While he was choking me I lost consciousness and I thought I died. I did not consent to any sexual activity”, she said.

According to the BBC, Drewes said she met Swalwell while working as a model in Beverly Hills and initially considered him a friend.

She said she had one glass of wine but was unable to move, leading her to believe she had been drugged.

Swalwell has denied all allegations. His lawyer, Sara Azari, said: “These accusations are false, fabricated, and deeply offensive - a calculated and transparent political hit job.”

“The timing, nature, and coordinated rollout of these vile and heinous allegations speak for themselves. This is neither about justice, nor the truth,” Azari added.

Drewes’ attorney, Lisa Bloom, said a police report would be filed with the Los Angeles Police Department.

The allegation follows claims by several other women, prompting an ethics inquiry.

Swalwell has since resigned from Congress and withdrawn from the California governor’s race.