Federal records show PAC has ties to former congressman Eric Swalwell and senator Ruben Gallego The Daily Mail reported that on the same weekend as Gallego’s 2021 wedding, he spent campaign funds at a Puerto Rico resort.
Documents filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) show that Swalwell’s campaign spent $1,522.11 at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico on June 7, 2021: the same day an Instagram post from a wedding guest identified Gallego’s ceremony as the location.
Event spending at wedding-related locations
That same day, Gallego’s campaign reportedly spent $2,000 at the nearby Fairmont El San Juan hotel. California Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, who was also present, is said to have spent more than $1,800 at the Hyatt Regency, plus a deposit from a previous stay.
Politico previously reported that Swalwell attended the wedding.
Under U.S. federal law, campaign funds cannot be used for personal expenses, but records did not clarify whether the spending was related to official activities.
Gallego distances himself
The report comes as Gallego attempts to distance himself from Swalwell, who recently resigned from Congress amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.
At a news conference, Gallego said he knew nothing about the alleged behavior but acknowledged hearing Swalwell was “flirting.” He added: “It’s hurtful and he hurt a lot of people… now we all have to deal with his bullshit and it makes me angry.”
He also said Swalwell “became very good at being a predator” and accused him of misleading colleagues during his time in Congress.
Charges and Resignations
At least five women have accused Swalwell of inappropriate behavior, including sexual assault and inappropriate messages, the Daily Mail reported. He denied the allegations but announced his resignation earlier this week and apologized to his family and staff.
The controversy also ended his suspended campaign for California governor shortly before leaving office.
Also read: Ruben Gallego admits on Eric Swalwell rape allegation: ‘I listened to lies’
The two politicians had a long-standing relationship while serving in Congress, and their families reportedly remain on friendly terms. Gallego said he had contacted Swalwell’s wife through mutual contacts after the charges were filed.
Gallego’s wife, Sydney Barron Gallego, is also a fixture in his public life, with the senator often sharing family moments and photos on social media, although she herself maintains a relatively low profile online.
Gallego himself has come under scrutiny before for his personal life, including his divorce from Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.
