Eric Swalwell’s foreign ties go much deeper according to bombshell report
Swalwell has been a mainstay of the anti-Trump movement. But now his career is over.
Because his foreign ties go much deeper according to a bombshell report.
Qatar-Funded Travel Raises Eyebrows
California Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democratic gubernatorial hopeful, is drawing fresh scrutiny over multiple visits to Doha, Qatar.
House financial disclosures reveal he made at least six Qatar-sponsored trips between 2020 and 2024, including a notable 2021 excursion valued at around $84,000 that featured business meetings, hospitality events, a FIFA World Cup briefing, and a desert camel ride.
These journeys, backed by either the Embassy of Qatar or the U.S.-Qatar Business Council, come amid ongoing questions about foreign influence on U.S. lawmakers.
Critics Label Him a ‘Useful Puppet’
The revelations have sparked sharp rebukes from political opponents.
Former Fox News host and GOP gubernatorial contender Steve Hilton didn’t hold back, calling Swalwell a “useful puppet” and declaring, “It’s corrupt. You shouldn’t be bought by foreign governments.”
He added, “We are sick of all these corrupt career politicians being bribed by foreign governments. They’re supposed to be representing us, not other countries.”
Critics point to Qatar’s reported connections to groups like Hamas and argue that repeated funded travel by a former member of the House Intelligence Committee creates an ethical gray area ripe for potential influence.
Swalwell’s History and Defense
This isn’t Swalwell’s first brush with controversy over foreign ties. He previously faced backlash for connections to a suspected Chinese operative known as Christine “Fang Fang” Fang, though he has repeatedly dismissed those claims as old news. On the Qatar trips, Swalwell has not issued a direct public response to recent inquiries.
A spokesperson for the Qatari Embassy defended the engagements, stating:
“These exchanges are part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, foster mutual understanding, and provide opportunities for policymakers to engage directly with counterparts in the region. Such engagements are a common feature of international diplomacy, with many close U.S. allies similarly hosting congressional delegations. Such visits typically include meetings, briefings, and cultural activities that reflect the importance of the U.S.-Qatar relationship. All travel is conducted in full compliance with applicable U.S. laws and disclosure requirements, and is transparently reported.”
