California Representative Eric Swalwell is facing serious allegations regarding his employment of a live-in Brazilian nanny, Amanda Barbosa. Complaints recently filed suggest he may have violated immigration and employment laws while using campaign funds to pay her for childcare services. These significant accusations emerge as Swalwell campaigns for governor of California.
Allegations of Immigration Law Violations
Barbosa, who originally came to the United States in January 2021 on an au pair visa, began working for Swalwell and his wife, Brittany, in the fall of 2021. As her temporary work authorization approached its expiration in December 2022, the couple allegedly provided false information to prolong her employment. This is detailed in a complaint submitted to the Department of Labor.
Use of Campaign Funds
The complaints highlight that Swalwell may have paid Barbosa under the table using campaign funds. In the year 2021, she received approximately $3,914, and her earnings increased to $46,930 in 2022. Despite her work authorization issues, she continued to be associated with the Swalwell family and reportedly participated in family activities through 2023 and 2024.
- 2021: Barbosa paid $3,914 in campaign funds.
- 2022: Barbosa’s payments increased to $46,930.
- Barbosa’s au pair visa expired in December 2022.
Ongoing Employment Despite Status
Despite her visa expiration, Swalwell initiated a process to sponsor Barbosa for a green card. During this time, she attended community college and was not authorized to work off campus. However, complaints allege that Swalwell continued to use campaign contributions for childcare. In 2024, the campaign reported a significant $52,262 as expenses for “childcare,” which is believed to circumvent regulations by keeping Barbosa off the official payroll.
Reaction to Complaints
California filmmaker and activist Joel Gilbert filed the complaints. He described Swalwell’s actions as a “brazen disregard” for the law, noting that harboring and employing an undocumented worker should not be tolerated.
Previous Investigations and Allegations
This situation is compounded by additional allegations of misconduct faced by Swalwell. Recent claims of sexual assault have emerged against him, which he vehemently denies. Furthermore, Swalwell is already under investigation by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) for spending over $200,000 in campaign funds on personal childcare, which may not align with campaign regulations.
Implications for Swalwell’s Campaign
As he runs for governor, Swalwell’s political future may be jeopardized by these allegations. The open primary is scheduled for June 2, and the former substantial campaign contributions have come under scrutiny given his high living expenses and debt issues. With public opinion shifting towards his opponents, including billionaire Tom Steyer, Swalwell’s position remains precarious amidst these legal troubles.
In conclusion, the allegations against Eric Swalwell regarding the use of campaign funds for an illegal live-in Brazilian nanny raise serious questions about his compliance with immigration and employment laws. As the investigations continue, the impact on his gubernatorial ambitions cannot be underestimated.
