Pressure mounts to expel Eric Swalwell from Congress amid allegations

A growing number of Congress members from both parties are calling for the expulsion of Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell amid allegations of inappropriate behavior, sexual assault, and rape. Swalwell, who is also a candidate for California governor, has denied these allegations, stating they are 'flat false.' However, the pressure for his resignation intensified this weekend, with some lawmakers suggesting he may not have the opportunity to resign before facing expulsion.

Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna announced her intention to pair a resolution to expel Swalwell with one aimed at expelling Texas Republican Tony Gonzales, who has acknowledged an extramarital affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. California Democrat Ro Khanna stated, 'What he did is sick and disgusting. There need to be consequences to that.' Khanna expressed openness to voting for Swalwell's expulsion if it was coupled with action against Gonzales, emphasizing the need for fairness in addressing misconduct across party lines.

Florida Republican Byron Donalds echoed the sentiment, stating, 'These allegations are despicable and they demean the integrity of Congress.' He indicated he would vote to expel both Swalwell and Gonzales. Washington Democrat Pramila Jayapal described Swalwell's alleged behavior as part of a broader issue of powerful men abusing women, calling it a 'depravity' that transcends party affiliation. At least four women have accused Swalwell of unwanted advances or sexual assault, with a former staffer alleging he raped her in 2024 while she was intoxicated. The Manhattan district attorney's office has opened an investigation into this allegation.

Swalwell has publicly apologized to his wife for 'mistakes in judgment' he described as a private matter. His attorney has threatened legal action against one of his accusers, according to reports from the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN.