U.S. Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell of California announced his resignation from Congress on Monday following multiple sexual assault allegations. This decision marks a rapid downfall for the long-serving lawmaker, who was previously considered a top contender in California’s upcoming gubernatorial race before withdrawing as the accusations came to light. Despite denying the claims, Swalwell expressed regret for his past errors and vowed to challenge the false allegations against him.
Following the allegations of sexual assault, Democrats swiftly distanced themselves from Swalwell, with reports emerging that he assaulted a woman on two occasions, including when she was in his employment. The incidents reportedly took place in 2019 and 2024, with the woman stating that she was incapacitated by alcohol both times and did not report the assaults out of fear of not being believed.
While the House ethics committee initiated an investigation into the allegations, it clarified that the mere act of investigating does not imply guilt. The alleged 2024 incident, which occurred in New York, is also under investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. Despite denying the accusations in a video statement, Swalwell hinted at personal indiscretions in his remarks.
The congressman’s sudden departure from the California governor race has thrown the contest into uncertainty, with his competitors scrambling to gain support in a crowded field. Prior to the allegations, Swalwell had been leading in polls, but subsequent revelations led to the loss of crucial endorsements and left the race wide open.
In the U.S. House, calls for Swalwell’s resignation came from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers. Though he criticized the idea of an immediate expulsion vote without due process, Swalwell acknowledged the distraction his situation posed and announced his intention to resign. This move raised the possibility of similar actions against other members of Congress, with Republican Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas also announcing his retirement following an admission of an affair with a former staffer.
With the political landscape in flux, Swalwell’s exit has reshaped the dynamics of both the California gubernatorial race and the composition of the U.S. House, setting the stage for further developments in the days ahead.