Sen. Gallego Calls for Swalwell’s Expulsion from Congress
Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) has suggested that Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) should face expulsion from Congress, stating that he is “no longer fit” for office following allegations of sexual assault made by a former staff member.
“I support the Ethics Committee investigation and believe Eric Swalwell is no longer fit to serve as a member of Congress,” Gallego mentioned in a statement. He added, “He should be expelled from Congress.”
Previously, Gallego referred to Swalwell as a “close friend,” claiming he had “no knowledge” of any allegations related to assault or misconduct against him. “I trusted someone I thought was a friend, but it’s now clear to me that he is not the person I thought I knew,” Gallego remarked. He emphasized the courage of the women who came forward, noting that they deserve belief and support in their pursuit of justice.
On Monday, the Chairman of the House Ethics Committee, Michael Guest (R-Miss.), and Ranking Member Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.) shared a joint statement indicating that the committee would investigate allegations against Swalwell, looking into any potential violations of conduct codes or relevant laws. They urged that the investigation’s commencement does not imply any wrongdoing has been confirmed.
Gallego’s call for Swalwell’s expulsion followed statements from some of Swalwell’s former staff. According to reports, one individual accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her on two occasions—once in September 2019 and again in April 2024. A report highlighted that Swalwell, 45, allegedly attempted to kiss her while she was driving, and later, exposed himself and solicited oral sex from her.
The individual recounted a situation from September 2019 where she claimed to have lost memory of events after drinking with Swalwell, later waking up naked in his hotel bed. Their relationship reportedly changed afterward, with Swalwell distancing himself from her.
In April 2024, during a gala honoring Swalwell, the woman stated that after drinking together, she resisted his advances, expressing her discomfort.
Following Gallego’s statement urging for his expulsion, Swalwell announced his intention to resign.
