Rep. Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Assault
TL/DR –
California Representative Eric Swalwell is resigning from Congress due to growing backlash surrounding allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. The decision follows his suspension of a campaign for governor and comes amidst controversy sparked by online rumors of abusive behavior towards women, with four women sharing their experiences with CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle. Swalwell denies the allegations and has not yet announced when the resignation will take effect, at which point California Governor Gavin Newsom will have 14 days to call a special election to fill the vacancy.
Following allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., is resigning his Congressional seat. Amidst rising demands for expulsion from the House of Representatives, Swalwell decided to step down, halting his campaign for California governor.
The San Francisco Chronicle and CNN reported several accusations against Swalwell, varying from unwelcome sexual advances to rape allegations. Swalwell has strongly refuted these allegations.
Once his resignation activates, Governor Gavin Newsom will have two weeks to announce a special election to fill the vacant seat in the safely Democratic Bay Area district.
Swalwell’s resignation is likely to end the impending House Ethics Committee investigation into his alleged sexual misconduct. This scandal contributes to the ongoing debate within Congress on handling lawmakers’ misconduct allegations.
Several House members had already called for Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, to resign over accusations of a past extramarital affair before Swalwell’s allegations arose. Gonzales acknowledged the affair in March and later terminated his reelection campaign.
Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, another House member under fire, is facing indictment charges for allegedly embezzling federal disaster funds. Despite the allegations, she has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing.
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