Former Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) announced his withdrawal from the California gubernatorial race on Sunday, following allegations of sexual misconduct. This decision did not quell the calls from some senators for him to resign from his position in the House. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) remarked clearly, “I think so,” when asked about Swalwell’s resignation. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) simply stated, “Yes.”
Despite the mounting pressure, Swalwell indicated he felt compelled to step down, while he continues to contest accusations of inappropriate behavior, which include claims of abuse and harassment. In a statement, Swalwell expressed regret, saying, “I deeply apologize to my family, staff, and constituents for the errors of judgment I made in the past. I intend to fight the serious and false allegations made against me. However, I must take responsibility and accountability for the mistakes I made.”
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) suggested that Swalwell’s decision was influenced by feedback from his constituents, stating, “I think he must have heard from his constituents and he responded to that.” A report from CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle detailing accusations by several women added to the urgency of the situation, highlighting claims of Swalwell’s inappropriate behavior related to handling intoxicated women and requesting explicit images.
As the news circulated, more lawmakers began to call for his resignation. Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) voiced concern over the seriousness of the allegations, mentioning, “They sound very serious…you think, ‘Oh, I don’t know Mr. Swalwell. He should go.”
Swalwell’s resignation could pave the way for a resolution aiming to expel him from Congress entirely, although he condemned this potential action. He stated, “It is wrong to remove members without due process within days of being charged. But it is also wrong for my constituents to allow me to be distracted from my job. Therefore, I will resign my seat in Congress.”
Under California law, Governor Gavin Newsom is required to call for a special election to fill Swalwell’s soon-to-be-vacant seat within 14 days, with elections to be held within 140 days after the announcement.
