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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsAugust 18, 2026Hillsborough

Declassified FBI records detail former Rep. Eric Swalwell's relationship with suspected Chinese intelligence operative

Newly declassified FBI documents confirm that former Representative Eric Swalwell engaged in physical relations with suspected Chinese intelligence operative Christine 'Fang Fang' Fang on multiple occasions between 2012 and 2015. The records, released by the White House, detail FBI interviews regarding Fang's efforts to funnel campaign contributions and interns into Swalwell's office, though the bureau ultimately found no evidence of criminal corruption by the congressman.

national securitycampaign financeforeign influencefbi investigationcongressional ethics
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Why It Matters

The disclosure provides public insight into a federal counterintelligence investigation involving a former member of Congress and allegations of foreign influence in U.S. political campaigns.

Key Facts

  • Eric Swalwell admitted to FBI agents that he had physical relations with Christine Fang on a 'handful of occasions' between 2012 and March 2015.
  • The FBI investigation examined allegations that Fang facilitated campaign contributions and internship placements in exchange for access to Swalwell.
  • The FBI concluded there was no evidence that Swalwell committed federal corruption violations or participated in a quid-pro-quo scheme.
  • Swalwell was removed as a subject of the FBI investigation in 2017.
  • The FBI found evidence that Christine Fang violated federal election laws regarding foreign-national and conduit contributions in 2013 and 2014.
  • The FBI previously attempted to cultivate Fang as a confidential source under the codename 'RUSTY THUMBS'.
  • Swalwell received a defensive briefing from the FBI in late April 2015 regarding foreign intelligence targeting.
  • Swalwell cut off contact with Fang after his initial meeting with the FBI.
  • Fang repeatedly encouraged Swalwell to visit China during their interactions.

Who's Mentioned

personDonald Trump“Former President who authorized declassification”personChristine Fang“Suspected Chinese intelligence operative”organizationMinistry of State Security“Chinese intelligence agency”organizationFBI“Federal Bureau of Investigation”organizationAsian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association“Organization linked to Fang's internship referrals”personEric Swalwell“Former U.S. Representative from California”