Eric Swalwell to Resign from Congress After Sexual Misconduct Claims

Following allegations of sexual misconduct, US Congressman Eric Swalwell has announced his decision to step down from Congress. The Democrat, who had withdrawn from the California governor race amid mounting pressure, expressed regret in a letter shared on X. “I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past,” he wrote. “I will fight the serious, false allegations made against me. However, I must own up to the errors I’ve made.”

Four women recently accused Swalwell of misconduct, including harassment and rape. The claims come as Congress initiates an ethics probe into his conduct. Elected to the House in 2012, Swalwell represented a district close to San Francisco. His resignation follows a swift loss of support from key backers and staff resignations after the allegations surfaced.

“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past,” the Democrat said in a letter posted on X.

Meanwhile, another legislator under investigation, Texas Republican Tony Gonzales, revealed plans to retire from office. Gonzales, who had abandoned his re-election campaign after admitting an affair with a staffer, will file his resignation once Congress reconvenes. His statement on X reflected on his time in service: “There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all. When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office. It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.”

Swalwell, a married father of three, has consistently denied the accusations. Despite losing prominent allies and staff, he emphasized the need for due process. “It would be wrong for fellow lawmakers to expel me without proper steps, within days of an allegation,” he stated. “Yet, it’s also wrong for constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my congressional seat.”

His district, covering areas east of San Francisco and north of San Jose, will now rely on his team to continue addressing community needs during his absence. The House ethics committee is set to address inquiries into both Swalwell and Gonzales as Congress returns from recess. Prosecutors in Manhattan have also launched a probe into his actions.

California’s gubernatorial race remains uncertain as no clear frontrunner has emerged from the Democratic field. Swalwell had been a projected top contender, according to recent polls. The state’s open primary system, allowing voters to choose candidates from any party, could fracture the party’s chances in November’s general election if Republicans outperform Democrats in June’s contest. Election officials confirmed that Swalwell’s name cannot be removed from ballots, leaving the race in flux.