Congressman Resigns House Seat; Gubernatorial Bid Also Ends
Eric Swalwell, a Democratic representative from California, has announced his resignation from the U.S. House of Representatives. The decision follows a cascade of sexual misconduct allegations from multiple women. Swalwell also recently withdrew from the race for California governor.
The allegations include claims of sexual assault, as well as the sending of unsolicited nude photographs and explicit messages. Swalwell has consistently denied these accusations, with his attorney characterizing them as a coordinated attempt to derail his political career.
Endorsements Withdrawn, Calls for Resignation Mount
The revelations prompted a swift backlash. Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign co-chairs, Congressmen Jimmy Gomez and Adam Gray, stepped down from their roles. Prominent California Democrats, including Senator Alex Padilla, rescinded their endorsements. Senator Adam Schiff also called for Swalwell to exit the governor's race.
Calls for Swalwell's resignation from Congress grew louder over the weekend, with a number of lawmakers from both parties supporting the move. Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna announced plans to file a resolution for Swalwell's expulsion. Democratic Representative Pramila Jayapal stated she would vote to expel him.
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Ethics Committee Investigation Launched
The House Ethics Committee confirmed on Monday that it is investigating Swalwell's conduct. This development occurred as Swalwell made his resignation public via a statement on his X account. He stated, "Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress." The exact timing of his departure from the House was not immediately specified.
Background: Rise and Allegations
Swalwell, currently serving his seventh term representing northern California, had risen to national prominence as a vocal critic of Donald Trump. Recent polling had shown him leading his Democratic rivals in the California gubernatorial contest, gaining on Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco.
The accusations, detailed by CNN, involve claims from four women who formerly worked for Swalwell. One woman alleged that Swalwell sexually assaulted her on two occasions when she was too intoxicated to consent. Another accuser, identified as Democratic influencer Ally Sammarco, claimed Swalwell sent her unsolicited photos of his penis. Swalwell’s attorney has reportedly threatened legal action against one of the accusers.
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