Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell declared on Monday that he will resign from Congress amid sexual assault allegations from several women, including claims of rape and unsolicited explicit communications. The announcement comes as Swalwell’s political standing deteriorated sharply, marked by his recent withdrawal from the California governor’s race.
Swalwell’s statement acknowledged ongoing efforts to initiate an immediate expulsion vote against him but framed such action without due process as inappropriate. He stated, “It’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties,” underscoring his decision to step down to prevent further disruption.
The allegations at the center of Swalwell’s resignation include accusations by a former staffer, reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, who claimed he had sexual encounters with her while she was too intoxicated to consent in 2019 and 2024. Additionally, three other women detailed instances of sexual misconduct to CNN, including unwanted explicit messages and nude photos. Swalwell apologized for “mistakes in judgment” but rejected the most serious claims as false.
Earlier Monday, the bipartisan House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into Swalwell’s conduct. With Swalwell’s pending resignation, the committee’s jurisdiction over the case will effectively end, as it applies only to sitting members and their staff.
The fallout from the allegations prompted notable distancing from Swalwell’s allies. Senator Ruben Gallego, a fellow Democrat, publicly called for Swalwell’s expulsion, stating that Swalwell was “no longer fit” to serve. Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna, who spearheaded the expulsion effort in the House, welcomed Swalwell’s resignation but emphasized the need for a criminal investigation.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office confirmed to CBS News that it is conducting a criminal inquiry into the allegations against Swalwell, signaling potential legal consequences beyond congressional proceedings.
Swalwell did not specify an exact resignation date, indicating he would coordinate with his staff to ensure continued constituent service during the transition.
Why it matters
Swalwell’s resignation marks a rare and significant development in congressional accountability regarding allegations of serious personal misconduct. The case highlights the challenges Congress faces balancing due process with swift action amid public and political pressure. The pending criminal investigation and ethics inquiry underscore the legal and ethical scrutiny elected officials may encounter in such situations.
Background
Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat, had been pursuing the governorship before the allegations surfaced, forcing him to halt his campaign. The House has historically expelled only six members, reflecting the gravity and rarity of such measures. The Ethics Committee’s involvement is standard procedure in misconduct claims against members of Congress, aiming to determine appropriate institutional responses before any House-wide vote.
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