Eric Swalwell was known for his connections in Hollywood, where he enjoyed the support of numerous top-tier donors. However, after his unsuccessful bid for the California governorship, the tides have turned against him.
Swalwell’s campaign, which raised over $100,000 from the entertainment industry, came to a halt, leaving many of his celebrity backers in silence. Names like Sean Penn, Robert De Niro, and Jane Fonda filled his donor list.
In a notable twist, Penn, a regular critic of Trump, contributed $15,000, while De Niro added $10,000 to the pot. Other notable figures, such as Jon Hamm and Jon Cryer, also chipped in $10,000 each, according to recent reports.
The report also highlighted contributions from producers like David Bernad, who gave $20,000, among others. Notably, D-list comedian Kathy Griffin donated $10,000, with Bryan Lourd of Creative Artists Agency chipping in $12,500.
Following Swalwell’s dramatic resignation announcement on Monday, the details surrounding his downfall were illuminated, including allegations of sexual misconduct that have not yet been resolved in court.
Billionaire Stephen Cloobeck, one of the Democratic Party’s biggest donors has announced that he’s abandoning the party, claiming a complete loss of trust following Eric Swalwell’s actions.
“I am now a Libertarian Republican” he says. pic.twitter.com/6WX30IOve6
— Right Side And Free (@rightsidefreee) April 14, 2026
As whispers grow louder in Hollywood about Swalwell’s behavior being an unacknowledged issue, insiders have expressed dismay. A political consultant revealed to Page Six that significant figures in the industry enabled Swalwell’s political rise.
“Hollywood needs to take a hard look in the mirror,” the consultant urged, emphasizing the Hollywood elite’s role in shaping the power dynamics in the state.
Before his resignation, Swalwell frequently attended entertainment events, often prioritizing them over congressional duties. This included notable appearances at premieres, such as the February event for “White Lotus.”
In the wake of Swalwell’s exit, Democrats are keen to secure the donor support he once enjoyed, with eight contenders now vying for attention, including former Rep. Katie Porter and billionaire Tom Steyer.
Porter has also attracted donations from Fonda and others, raising questions in Hollywood: Who will benefit next, and who will be left in the lurch?
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