Rep. Eric Swalwell Resigns from Congress Amid Serious Sexual Misconduct Allegations
By Staff Reporter | April 13, 2026
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), a prominent Democratic lawmaker, announced his resignation from Congress on Monday, April 13, 2026, following a wave of serious allegations including sexual harassment, assault, and rape leveled by four women.[1][3][4]
Swalwell’s decision comes amid mounting bipartisan pressure and an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into his conduct, particularly claims involving a former staff member.[2][3][5] In a statement posted on social media, the East Bay congressman expressed regret for past “mistakes in judgment” while denying the most severe accusations.
“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff and constituents for mistakes in judgement I’ve made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make,” Swalwell wrote.[3][5]
He further argued against immediate expulsion without due process but acknowledged the distraction it posed to his constituents: “It is unjust to expel any member of Congress without proper due process, especially shortly after an allegation arises. However, it is also not fair for my constituents to have me sidetracked from my responsibilities.”[1]
Escalating Pressure and Parallel Resignations
Swalwell’s announcement arrived just hours before Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) also declared his intent to resign amid separate sexual misconduct allegations, including an admitted affair with a staffer who later died by suicide.[2] Both lawmakers faced potential expulsion votes pushed by House Republicans, with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) urging leadership to bring the measures to the floor as early as Wednesday.[2]
The House Ethics Committee had initiated probes into both representatives, but investigations are expected to be suspended upon their official departures.[2] Swalwell’s allegations, first detailed by the San Francisco Chronicle, include claims of sexual assault on two occasions, one involving a staffer.[5]
Swalwell’s Political Career in Review
First elected to represent California’s 14th Congressional District in 2012, Swalwell quickly rose as a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, serving as an impeachment manager during Trump’s second trial in 2021. He gained national attention for his sharp debates and social media presence, often clashing with conservatives online.
His tenure was not without controversy. In 2020, Swalwell faced scrutiny over his past association with Christine Fang, a suspected Chinese spy, though federal investigations cleared him of wrongdoing. More recently, he had been eyed as a potential candidate for California governor, a bid now derailed by the unfolding scandal.[5]
Swalwell’s district, encompassing parts of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, is a Democratic stronghold. A special election will be required to fill the vacancy, with California Governor Gavin Newsom tasked with setting the date.[5]
Bipartisan Backlash and Committee Response
The resignations highlight a rare moment of cross-party unity on Capitol Hill. Democrats and Republicans alike called for Swalwell and Gonzales to step aside, reflecting heightened sensitivity to workplace misconduct in the #MeToo era.[4]
“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,” Swalwell emphasized, framing his exit as a pragmatic choice.[1][3]
Video reports from Scripps News and NBC Bay Area captured the rapid developments, with correspondents noting the allegations’ impact on Swalwell’s future ambitions.[3][4] As of Monday evening, it remained unclear exactly when Swalwell would formally file his resignation, though he pledged to do so upon Congress’s return.[2]
Broader Implications for Congress
This dual resignation underscores ongoing challenges in addressing sexual misconduct within the halls of power. The House Ethics Committee, often criticized for slow deliberations, has seen its workload intensify with high-profile cases.[2]
Swalwell’s departure marks the end of a combative era for the California delegation. Colleagues expressed mixed reactions: some praised his service, while others demanded full accountability.
In his statement, Swalwell reiterated his commitment to fighting the “false allegations” in other forums, suggesting potential legal battles ahead.[3][5]
What’s Next for the District
California’s 14th District voters, who reelected Swalwell with over 70% in recent cycles, now face an abrupt leadership change. Potential successors include local Democrats eyeing higher office amid the governor’s race speculation that once swirled around Swalwell.[5]
As Congress reconvenes, the resignations could shift dynamics in the narrowly divided House, particularly on ethics and oversight committees where both men served.
The developments dominated cable news cycles Monday, with analysts debating due process versus public accountability in congressional scandals.[3][4]
Swalwell’s office did not immediately respond to requests for further comment beyond the social media post. Updates will follow as the situation evolves.