Recent Developments in Congress: Expulsions and Resignations

This week could easily be dubbed “retirement week” in Congress. Historically, the House of Representatives has expelled only six members. However, as of Monday, discussions were underway regarding the potential expulsion of four members, something quite significant.

To expel a member, a two-thirds majority is required. The last time this happened was in late 2023 when former Congressman George Santos was ousted. To understand the rarity of such actions, we have to look back to 2002, when the late Rep. Jim Traficant was expelled.

Whistleblower Accusations Against Eric Swalwell

Calls for the removal of former Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) intensified after accusations of sexual assault against a former aide and several women emerged. Swalwell initially planned to contest the claims but ultimately withdrew from his bid for the California governorship, losing support from former allies. He has since resigned, sidestepping a potential expulsion.

Then there’s Tony Gonzalez (R-Texas), who initially denied an affair with an aide implicated in a tragic incident. He bowed out of a tough primary against Brandon Herrera and has decided not to seek re-election, although he intended to stay in office until January 3. Now he’s out as well.

Pursuing Expulsions: A Complex Situation

Rep. Sheila Chaffaras McCormick (D-Florida) faces possible expulsion as well. In March, the House Ethics Committee held an unusual hearing and found that she fraudulently obtained $5 million in COVID-19 relief funds. The committee is expected to recommend punitive measures soon. McCormick asserts her innocence and will stand trial in February 2027.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) suggested that the evidence against McCormick makes a strong case for expulsion. In fact, another Republican, Cory Mills of Florida, is also facing scrutiny for allegations ranging from “stolen valor” to domestic violence. Although a restraining order was granted, he hasn’t been charged with any crime yet.

Shifting Dynamics in the House

The current tumult reflects broader dynamics within the House. With the recent seating of Rep. Clay Fuller (R-Ga.) after Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation, and potential shifts with Analilia Mejia’s expected victory in New Jersey, the balance of power is feeling a bit precarious. Currently, the breakdown stands at 217 Republicans and 213 Democrats.

Interestingly, the House is grappling with the implications of expelling members as it could disrupt the delicate party balance. During discussions, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries acknowledged the issue of parity but emphasized focusing on current matters at hand.

Decisions Ahead

What happens next remains somewhat unclear. Will the House ultimately move to expel these members, or will the political calculus lead them to hesitate? The complexities of ethics investigations and political implications weigh heavily on decisions to discipline or remove members.

This week might indeed feel like an “Exile Week” at the Capitol, but ultimately, it’s shaping up to be more about retirement and resignation than expulsion. The atmosphere is charged, and the future actions of Congress could significantly impact both parties.