Democrats join calls to expel Eric Swalwell from Congress over sexual misconduct claims

Eric Swalwell, a California congressman, faces mounting pressure from fellow Democrats to be removed from the House of Representatives following allegations of sexual misconduct. The accusations have disrupted his campaign for the state’s gubernatorial seat, with some lawmakers arguing that expulsion is warranted if similar actions by Republican Tony Gonzales of Texas are also addressed. Virginia Democrat Eugene Vindman expressed this stance to CNN, stating,

“We should not tolerate this behaviour. Representative Eric Swalwell needs to go.”

Before the misconduct claims emerged, Swalwell was seen as a leading contender in California’s governor race. However, Gonzales recently stepped down from his re-election bid after admitting to an affair with a staff member. A House ethics panel is currently examining his conduct. Meanwhile, four women have accused Swalwell of various forms of misconduct, including harassment and sexual assault, with one incident in New York sparking an investigation by the Manhattan district attorney’s office. The BBC has not yet independently confirmed the identities of the unnamed accusers.

Swalwell, elected in 2012 to a district near San Francisco, defended himself in a statement on Friday. “For nearly 20 years, I have served the public—as a prosecutor and a congressman—and have always protected women,” he said. “I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action.” The allegations have quickly impacted his campaign, with prominent supporters like House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries withdrawing their backing within hours.

Some California Democrats, including Jared Huffman and Pramila Jayapal, have gone further, advocating for Swalwell’s expulsion if Gonzales remains in office. Jayapal emphasized,

“It is important for staffers across the Capitol to see that their bosses don’t get to do this to them.”

Ro Khanna, another California Democrat, did not explicitly endorse removal but stressed the need for consequences, including an ethics inquiry and law enforcement review. He also called for Gonzales to be held accountable.

The push for expulsion has transcended party lines. Republican Mike Lawler from New York noted,

“Congress must hold itself to the highest ethical standard, regardless of party.”

Florida Republican Byron Donalds said he would support expelling both lawmakers, adding,

“That vote comes to the floor, I will be voting yes on both measures… As far as I am concerned, both gentlemen need to go home.”

Anna Paulina Luna, also from Florida, announced plans to file a motion against Swalwell.

An expulsion from the U.S. House is a rare procedural step, requiring approval from two-thirds of lawmakers present. Only six members have been expelled in the chamber’s 237-year history. The timing of these allegations is significant, as they arise during a pivotal moment in California’s Democratic primary race, which has seen a Democrat hold the governor’s post for two decades. Voters are set to receive postal ballots just weeks after the scandal emerged.