Swalwell-FBI clash draws attention to Trump foe’s California governor bid

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat running for governor, sent a cease-and-desist letter to the FBI on Monday over the bureau's contemplation of releasing files on a Chinese spy who had contact with him. The potential disclosure has sparked concerns about whether the Trump administration might weaponize sensitive intelligence documents against political rivals during an election cycle. Swalwell's legal action underscores tensions between a prominent Trump critic and federal law enforcement at a moment when the congressman is pursuing statewide office. The case highlights broader questions about how classified counterintelligence matters involving public figures are handled, particularly when their release could affect political campaigns. The FBI's plans for the files remain unclear, but the clash has already drawn scrutiny to Swalwell's gubernatorial ambitions and his relationship with the intelligence community.