Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, a longtime vocal critic of President Donald Trump, has been hit with a criminal referral to the Department of Justice amid allegations of mortgage and tax fraud tied to the purchase of a Washington, D.C., home.

The referral came in a letter from Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte to Attorney General Pam Bondi, accusing Swalwell of making false or misleading statements in loan documents, according to an anonymous source. As reported by Daily Caller, the FHFA's acting inspector general is also investigating the claims, while the DOJ declined to comment and the FHFA did not respond to inquiries.

Swalwell dismissed the referral as political retaliation, vowing to continue his lawsuit against Trump and his advocacy for Californians. He has previously labeled Trump a "dictator" and highlighted his role as one of the president's most outspoken opponents.

Allegations Spark Criminal Referral

The criminal referral centers on claims that Swalwell provided false or misleading information in documents related to securing a mortgage for a house in Washington, D.C. FHFA Director Bill Pulte outlined these concerns in his letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, prompting an immediate probe by the agency's acting inspector general.

An anonymous source confirmed the details of the allegations, which include both mortgage and tax fraud elements. The referral underscores potential violations in federal housing finance protocols, though specific evidence has not been publicly detailed.

Swalwell's case adds to a growing list of investigations into public figures accused of similar financial improprieties. The FHFA's involvement highlights its oversight role in ensuring integrity in housing-related loans backed by federal entities.

Swalwell's Defiant Response Emerges

In a statement, Swalwell portrayed the referral as an attack stemming from his criticism of Trump, saying, "As the most vocal critic of Donald Trump over the last decade and as the only person who still has a surviving lawsuit against him, the only thing I am surprised about is that it took him this long to come after me." He compared his situation to those of James Comey, John Bolton, Adam Schiff, Lisa Cook, and Letitia James, declaring his refusal to live in fear.

Swalwell affirmed his commitment to ongoing legal action, adding, "Of course, I will not end my lawsuit against him." He emphasized his intent to keep speaking out against the president and for his constituents in California.

Quoting Mark Twain, Swalwell stated, "Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it," before urging Trump to "do better" and "be better." His response frames the referral as part of a broader pattern of targeting political opponents.

Parallel Probes Target Other Critics

Similar mortgage fraud allegations have led to DOJ referrals against other prominent Trump critics, including Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff, who established a legal defense fund in August. Attorney General Bondi appointed special prosecutor Ed Martin to investigate claims against Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Federal Reserve Board Gov. Lisa Cook also faced a referral from Pulte in August over alleged mortgage fraud, triggering a separate probe. These cases illustrate a pattern of scrutiny on financial dealings of figures who have publicly opposed Trump.

The investigations began intensifying under the Trump administration, with Martin's appointment on Aug. 8 marking a formal escalation. While details vary, the common thread involves accusations of fraudulent statements in loan applications.

Lessons to Learn

1. Be honest in financial documents: Any misrepresentation on mortgage loan applications—even unintentional errors—can trigger investigations and legal consequences. Meticulous accuracy can protect both individuals and institutions from fraud allegations.

2. Recognize the political impact of legal actions: Public officials, especially those in high-profile disputes, may face accusations that have broad political implications. Scrutiny increases with visibility, and those in the public eye must exercise heightened diligence in all financial affairs.

3. No one is immune to fraud allegations: Despite taking careful steps, anyone can face legal scrutiny. Investigations do not always indicate guilt, and we must avoid victim-blaming while still advocating for strong institutional safeguards.

Why This Story Matters

This case underscores how financial crimes can intersect with politics, raising questions about accountability, oversight, and ethical standards for public officials. It also highlights the ongoing tension in the U.S. political system, where legal actions are often entangled with partisan conflict. The story is especially important as it highlights the importance of transparency from elected leaders, regardless of their political affiliations.

Representative Swalwell’s referral to the DOJ over alleged mortgage fraud has added to a mounting list of high-profile Democrats under scrutiny for similar accusations. The probe follows allegations that he submitted false or misleading loan information during a recent home purchase in Washington, D.C. The referral was initiated by FHFA Director Bill Pulte and supported by an anonymous source cited in a media report, though no formal DOJ action has yet been announced. Swalwell denies wrongdoing and frames the investigation as politically driven, pointing to his public opposition to former President Trump as a possible motive.