Eric Swalwell, U.S. Representative for California's 15th congressional district, has formally resigned from the House of Representatives, effective immediately. The announcement follows a wave of sexual misconduct and assault allegations that intensified over the weekend. Swalwell's resignation came as the House Ethics Committee announced it was launching an investigation into his conduct.
The core of the matter: Representative Swalwell has resigned his seat in Congress following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and assault. This decision comes as bipartisan calls for his expulsion mounted, and the House Ethics Committee initiated a formal inquiry into the claims.
Swalwell, a seven-term lawmaker and former frontrunner in the California gubernatorial race, announced his decision via a statement posted to his X account on Monday. He has consistently denied the allegations leveled against him, including claims of sexual assault on two occasions when a woman alleges she was too intoxicated to consent. Other accusations involve claims of sending explicit photos and unwanted physical advances.
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The timing of the resignation appears directly linked to the escalating pressure from within his own party and across the aisle. Lawmakers had begun publicly urging Swalwell to step down, and a vote for expulsion loomed. His departure triggers a special election in his Bay Area district.
Fallout and Wider Implications
Swalwell's exit significantly impacts the California gubernatorial contest, a race in which he had recently been considered a leading contender before suspending his bid amid the swirling allegations. His resignation was also quickly followed by Rep. Tony Gonzales's announcement that he too would be retiring from Congress, though details surrounding Gonzales's situation appear distinct, involving personal conduct and the subsequent suicide of an aide.
Sources indicate that while Swalwell is leaving his congressional post, staff members in his office are expected to continue their work. The congressman stated his decision to resign was partly to avoid distracting from his duties to his constituents. He framed his resignation as an act of leaving "on his own terms."
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