Rep. Eric Swalwell announced on Monday that he will resign from Congress, three days after sexual misconduct allegations destroyed his campaign for California governor. The Democrat from Alameda County said he would step down rather than face an expulsion vote.
Why it matters
Swalwell’s resignation is the second congressional departure in a single day, following Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas. The dual exits reduce Democrats’ already slim minority in the House and trigger special elections in both districts.
The allegations
A former staffer alleged that Swalwell raped her after a night of drinking when she could not consent. The San Francisco Chronicle first reported her account on 10 April. CNN subsequently reported that three additional women described sexual misconduct, including unsolicited explicit photographs and messages.
Swalwell has “strongly and repeatedly” denied the assault allegation.
The resignation
In his statement, Swalwell said he was aware of efforts to bring an immediate expulsion vote. “Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong,” he said. “But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties.”
Criminal investigation
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office confirmed on 12 April that it is investigating the assault allegation, which the former staffer said took place in New York.
California governor’s race
Swalwell’s exit from both the governor’s race and Congress has thrown the California Democratic field into disarray. His campaign had secured endorsements from major labour unions and senior party figures, most of whom withdrew support within hours of the Chronicle report.