Swalwell seeks to block FBI release of decade-old Fang files ahead of California bid

Rep. Eric Swalwell has filed a cease-and-desist with FBI Director Kash Patel, urging him not to release files about Swalwell’s past ties to Christine Fang, a suspected Chinese intelligence operative. Swalwell, a leading candidate for California governor, argues that releasing the files would smear him and violate his First Amendment rights and DOJ rules, potentially exposing the FBI to liability. The Washington Post reported Patel’s efforts to release the decade-old file; Swalwell denies any wrongdoing and says he assisted in the FBI investigation. The FBI has not commented.