House Ethics Committee Launches Sexual Misconduct Investigation into Rep. Eric Swalwell
WASHINGTON D.C. — The House Ethics Committee confirmed on Monday that it has formally opened an investigation into Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a former staff member.
The investigation follows a tumultuous weekend for the California congressman, who suspended his gubernatorial campaign on Sunday. The allegations, which Swalwell has vehemently denied, suggest he engaged in non-consensual sexual encounters with an employee under his supervision.
Details of the Allegations
The controversy intensified after reports from the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN detailed accounts from a woman who alleges she was assaulted by the congressman on two separate occasions—once in 2019 and again in 2024. According to the reports:
The first alleged incident occurred while the woman was employed by Swalwell.
The second incident allegedly took place following a charity event in 2024.
The accuser stated she was too intoxicated to provide consent during both encounters.
Swalwell has maintained his innocence, stating on social media, "I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made—but that’s my fight, not a campaign’s."
Political Fallout and Bipartisan Pressure
The fallout has been swift across the political spectrum. High-ranking members of the Democratic party have distanced themselves from the congressman, while several colleagues have called for his immediate resignation.
Calls for Expulsion: Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) announced plans to file a motion to expel Swalwell from Congress.
Bipartisan Resignation Demands: Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) stated that she believes Swalwell should resign, emphasizing the importance of believing survivors. Similarly, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) indicated he would support a vote for expulsion if it reached the House floor.
Broader Congressional Context
The investigation into Swalwell has sparked discussions regarding a "tit-for-tat" expulsion cycle in the House. Democratic lawmakers have pointed toward Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) as a potential target for similar action, following his acknowledgment of an affair with a staff member who later passed away by suicide.
The House Ethics Committee noted that the public disclosure of the probe does not serve as an indicator of guilt. However, the investigation effectively pauses immediate floor action on expulsion while the panel reviews the evidence and genetic testimonies.
