Overview
- More than 200 contributors have asked for over $1.5 million back, and former staff say the campaign has not provided an approved way to process refunds.
- Campaign filings list $4 million on hand, about $200,000 in debt and a $40,000 payment to defense lawyer Sara Azari, with Eric Swalwell now listed as treasurer.
- State guidance allows campaign funds for legal costs only when tied to a candidate’s official duties or the campaign, raising questions about whether Azari’s fees qualify.
- Donors have tried going through the campaign and the ActBlue platform for refunds, and while a few high‑profile givers like Kathy Griffin clawed back money, many small donors report no success.
- Multiple probes continue, including inquiries by the Manhattan district attorney’s office, the FBI and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office, and Swalwell denies the allegations.