Former Presidential Candidate Eric Swalwell Resigns from House Over Assault Allegations
The California lawmaker said in a statement that while he opposes efforts to remove members of Congress without due process, he would step down to avoid distracting from his responsibilities to constituents.
Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell announced Monday that he plans to resign from Congress amid mounting pressure following allegations of sexual misconduct and the launch of a House ethics investigation.
The California lawmaker said in a statement that while he opposes efforts to remove members of Congress without due process, he would step down to avoid distracting from his responsibilities to constituents.
“Expelling anyone in Congress without due process… is wrong,” Swalwell said. “But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”
Swalwell has denied allegations of sexual assault made by a former staffer, who told media outlets that an encounter following a night of drinking occurred without her consent. Additional allegations from other women include claims of inappropriate messages and conduct. Swalwell acknowledged “mistakes in judgment” but said the most serious accusation is false.
The announcement follows a wave of political fallout. More than 50 former staffers signed a letter urging him to resign, and several Democratic colleagues publicly called for his removal. Senator Ruben Gallego, a longtime ally, said Swalwell was “no longer fit” to serve.
The House Ethics Committee had opened an investigation, and lawmakers were reportedly considering a vote to expel him. Such a move would have required bipartisan support.
Swalwell, first elected in 2012, had been a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and previously ran for president in 2020. He had also recently launched a campaign for California governor but suspended it after the allegations surfaced.
Separately, prosecutors in New York and California said they are reviewing whether any criminal conduct occurred in connection with the claims.
In a related development, Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas also announced plans to resign, following his own controversy involving an admitted relationship with a staff member.
Swalwell did not specify when his resignation would take effect. A special election to fill his seat is expected in the coming months.