San Francisco, CA — Former California congressman Eric Swalwell was briefly detained by FBI agents at San Francisco International Airport earlier this week, according to federal officials familiar with the matter. The encounter, which occurred near a private security checkpoint in Terminal 2, is part of what authorities describe as an “active investigative process.”

Witnesses said two plainclothes agents approached Swalwell shortly after he arrived from a domestic flight, identifying themselves before escorting him to a secured interview room away from public view. The agents were seen carrying document envelopes and an electronic evidence kit typically used for device imaging.

A spokesperson for the FBI declined to comment on the nature of the inquiry, citing agency policy on ongoing investigations. However, a federal law‑enforcement official, speaking on background, said the airport contact was “pre‑planned” and “cooperative,” emphasizing that Swalwell was not arrested and was released after approximately 45 minutes.

Swalwell’s office issued a short statement late Tuesday, saying the former congressman “fully complied with federal authorities” and “continues to maintain that he has done nothing improper.” The statement criticized what it called “politically motivated leaks” surrounding the situation, urging the public to “allow investigators to do their work without speculation.”

The former representative, who served more than a decade in Congress and sat on the House Intelligence Committee, has faced heightened scrutiny in recent months following reports that federal agents executed a search warrant at his residence. Swalwell has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and has not been charged with any crime.

Legal analysts note that airport detentions of public figures, while uncommon, are sometimes used when investigators need immediate access to electronic devices or travel records. “It doesn’t imply guilt,” said one former federal prosecutor. “It means investigators believe the timing and location are necessary to preserve evidence.”

Swalwell was seen leaving the airport with staff members shortly after the FBI interview concluded. The investigation is expected to continue in the coming months.

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