California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Tuesday that a special election will take place on August 18 to fill the congressional seat left vacant by Eric Swalwell, who recently resigned. In his declaration, Newsom stated, “I, Gavin Newsom, Governor of the State of California, hereby declare and order that a special election be held in the 14th Congressional District of the State of California on August 18, 2026, to fill the vacancy in the United States House of Representatives for that district resulting from the resignation of Congressman Eric Swalwell.”
There has been significant pressure from both political parties urging Swalwell to resign or face expulsion due to serious accusations of sexual misconduct and rape. After serving 13 years in Congress, Swalwell now finds himself entangled in allegations of sexual assault.
On a different note, the Democratic Party announced on Sunday evening that it would suspend its gubernatorial campaign. The following day, Swalwell revealed his plans to resign from Congress.
In his resignation letter, which was read aloud in the House, Swalwell expressed remorse, stating, “I deeply apologize to my family, staff, and constituents for my past errors in judgment. I will fight the serious and false allegations made against me.” He concluded his congressional career after a decade of service, having first been elected in 2013.
