Swalwell Faces Calls to Resign Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) is facing mounting calls from fellow Democrats to resign from Congress and withdraw from the California governor's race after allegations surfaced that he sexually assaulted a former staffer. Swalwell has denied the allegations, stating they are "absolutely false" and pledging to fight them vigorously.

The allegations, reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, involve incidents in 2019 and 2024 where the woman claims she was too intoxicated to consent. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has initiated an investigation into the 2024 incident. Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign has seen significant fallout, with prominent supporters, including Senator Adam Schiff and various labor unions, retracting their endorsements. Representative Jimmy Gomez, who was involved in Swalwell's campaign, has also stepped down from his role.

In Congress, members from both parties are considering expulsion proceedings. Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) announced plans to file a motion to begin the process. Expulsion from the House requires a two-thirds majority vote and is a rare action, with only six members having been expelled in history. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) emphasized the bipartisan nature of the issue, stating, "This is not a partisan issue. This cuts across party lines. And it is depravity of the way that women have been treated."

House Democratic leadership, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, has called for a swift investigation into the allegations and urged Swalwell to end his gubernatorial campaign. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and suggested they be investigated "outside of a gubernatorial campaign."

Swalwell, who is not seeking re-election to his House seat, has indicated he will spend time with family and provide an update soon. The situation continues to develop as both political and legal pressures mount.