Rep. Eric Swalwell to Resign Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell of California announced on Monday that he will resign from Congress following multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. Swalwell’s decision comes amid bipartisan calls for his resignation and an ongoing investigation by the House Ethics Committee.

In a statement posted on X, Swalwell acknowledged efforts to initiate an immediate expulsion vote against him and other members, stating, “Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong. But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.” He did not specify an exact resignation date but said he would work with his staff to continue serving the 14th congressional district.

The announcement follows the suspension of Swalwell’s campaign for California governor, which he ended on Sunday amid declining support. Multiple women have accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, including allegations of rape and sending unsolicited explicit messages and nude photos. One former staffer, whose allegations were first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, accused Swalwell of having sex with her when she was too intoxicated to consent in both 2019 and 2024. Three other women also shared accounts of alleged misconduct with CNN.

Swalwell apologized for past “mistakes in judgment” in his resignation statement but maintained his intention to contest what he described as a “serious, false allegation.” The House Ethics Committee announced on Monday that it had launched an investigation into Swalwell, though his resignation is expected to conclude the inquiry.

This development marks a significant turn in Swalwell’s political career as he steps down amid serious allegations and scrutiny from both parties.