More than 15K votes wasted on Eric Swalwell in California governor's race

Thousands of California Democrats cast ballots for Eric Swalwell even though the disgraced ex-congressman’s zombie campaign for governor was suspended after allegations of rape and sexual assault.With 42.0% of precincts partially reporting Tuesday night, Swalwell had drawn 15,221 votes, or 0.4%, in the crowded race to succeed Gov.Gavin Newsom, according to the California Secretary of State’s Office.It’s unclear why so many Californians decided to light their ballots on fire, as the votes amounted to wasted trees in California’s top-two primary, especially after Swalwell suspended his campaign and resigned from Congress after a series of women — including former staffers — accused him of sexual misconduct.Swalwell, an East Bay Democrat and once-prominent critic of President Trump, suspended his campaign after two bombshell reports by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN detailed disturbing allegations.

Swalwell denied any wrongdoing while admitting to extramartial affairs, calling the incidents “mistakes in judgment.”The revelations came too late for Swalwell’s name to be removed from the ballot, leaving voters with the option of no fewer than 60 other candidates.And still, more than 15,000 people seemed to have been unaware or unconcerned.After his career imploded, Swalwell installed himself as treasurer for his defunct campaign for governor, giving him full control of a $4 million money pot.

Much of that money has since gone to paying his lawyers.Republican former Fox News host Steve Hilton held a narrow lead Tuesday night as more returns came in, with the Republican drawing 1,029,950 votes, or 26.8%, while former Biden administration health secretary Xavier Becerra followed with 990,114 votes, or 25.8%.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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