U.S. Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell from California revealed his decision to step down from Congress on Monday amidst multiple accusations of sexual assault, leading to bipartisan calls for his resignation. The move marks a rapid decline in the political career of the seven-term congressman, who was previously considered a strong contender in California’s gubernatorial race before withdrawing following the emergence of the allegations, which he vehemently denies.
Expressing regret to his family, staff, and constituents for past errors in judgment, Swalwell stated on social media his intent to combat the serious false accusations against him while acknowledging his accountability for past mistakes. Following the publication of allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman on two occasions, including during her employment under him, Democratic support for Swalwell waned swiftly. The accuser, whose identity remains undisclosed, reported being incapacitated by alcohol during the alleged incidents and refrained from involving law enforcement out of fear of not being believed.
The House ethics committee initiated an investigation into the claims on Monday, emphasizing that the inquiry does not signify any violation has occurred. The alleged incident in 2024 is under investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, urging individuals with relevant information to come forward.
Despite denying the allegations in a video response, Swalwell hinted at marital infidelity in various statements. Additional women, including Democratic strategist Ally Sammarco, accused him of inappropriate behavior, such as sending explicit images. The unfolding scandal has significant political ramifications, notably in the California gubernatorial race.
Swalwell, who took office in 2012 representing a district in the vicinity of San Francisco, previously served as a city council member in Dublin, California. His brief bid for the presidency in 2019 raised his profile, and he emerged as a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump. Notably, Swalwell was investigated by the FBI due to his connection with Christine Fang, a suspected Chinese intelligence operative, during his election campaigns in 2012 and 2014.
The abrupt exit of Swalwell from the gubernatorial race in California has reshaped the political landscape, compelling his rivals to vie for support in a competitive field. With the primary election featuring a plethora of candidates, including prominent Democrats and Republicans, the race remains unpredictable. The departure of Swalwell’s supporters has injected further uncertainty into the campaign dynamics.
Amid calls for his resignation from both sides of the aisle, Swalwell announced his intention to step down from Congress to prevent distractions from his duties. The potential for expulsion raised by Democratic lawmakers highlights the broader implications for both parties. Notably, Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas, who admitted to an extramarital affair with a former staffer who subsequently died by suicide, also announced his retirement from Congress in light of the controversy.