Rep. Eric Swalwell Resigns from Congress and Governor Race Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell resigned from Congress and suspended his California gubernatorial campaign following multiple sexual misconduct allegations, including assault and harassment. Facing bipartisan pressure for expulsion and investigations by the Manhattan DA and House Ethics Committee, Swalwell denied criminal claims but admitted to judgment errors. His abrupt exit has destabilized the Democratic primary for California governor, raising concerns about party fragmentation. The scandal highlights intensified accountability for congressional conduct, occurring alongside similar resignations of other lawmakers amid broader ethical scrutiny in Washington.
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
DOJ Investigates Eric Swalwell Over Sexual Assault Allegations
The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into multiple sexual assault allegations against former California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell, according to reports. The probe follows public accusations that Swalwell sexually assaulted a woman on two occasions, including once when she was his employee in 2019 and again after a 2024 charity gala. The accuser stated she was too intoxicated to consent, claims Swalwell has firmly denied as false. Amidst the scandal, Swalwell suspended his campaign for California governor and announced his resignation from Congress, ending a career that began in 2012. Democratic leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries and Adam Schiff, quickly distanced themselves, calling for investigations and withdrawing endorsements. The House Ethics Committee also opened an inquiry into potential misconduct. Further allegations have emerged, with CNN reporting three additional women accusing Swalwell of sending unsolicited explicit messages, and the AP citing a separate rape allegation from 2018. This development marks a significant political downfall for the former prosecutor known for his role in Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial, while his wife, Brittany Watts, has remained silent.
NewsweekSwalwell’s Downfall Triggers Democratic Reckoning Amid Governor Bid
California Congressman Eric Swalwell is facing a significant political crisis following the emergence of sexual misconduct allegations, which have abruptly halted his campaign for governor. Prior to these revelations, Swalwell had secured endorsements from prominent Democratic leaders, positioning him as a strong contender in the upcoming election. The sudden shift in his political fortunes has created a reckoning within the Democratic Party, forcing officials to reassess their support and address the implications of backing a candidate now embroiled in scandal. This development highlights the volatile nature of modern political campaigns and the immediate impact of personal conduct allegations on electoral prospects. The situation underscores the challenges faced by party establishments in vetting candidates and managing public perception when serious accusations arise. As the story unfolds, it raises questions about accountability, the speed of information dissemination in the digital age, and the potential long-term effects on the Democratic Party's image and strategy in California. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for political aspirants and party strategists alike, emphasizing the critical importance of personal integrity in public service.
WSJ.com : U.S. NewsEric Swalwell Accused of Rape, Resigns from Congress and California Governor Race
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell has resigned from his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives and suspended his campaign for Governor of California following serious sexual assault allegations. Model Lonna Drewes accused Swalwell of drugging and raping her in a Los Angeles hotel room in 2018, stating she was paralyzed and choked during the incident. Her testimony joins accusations from other women involving unsolicited nude photographs and sexual violence. Despite the mounting scandal, Swalwell denies all charges, with his lawyer describing them as fabricated and part of a coordinated political effort to destroy his reputation. Swalwell has warned of legal action against those he claims orchestrated the campaign against him. Investigations are currently underway by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office. The article highlights the stark contrast between Swalwell's public persona as a prominent critic of Donald Trump and the private criminal allegations now ending his two-decade political career. Drewes cited Swalwell's political influence as the reason for her eight-year delay in reporting the crime.
elpaisSteve Hilton Criticizes Democratic Response to Eric Swalwell Scandal
California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has sharply criticized the Democratic Party's reaction to the scandal involving former Congressman Eric Swalwell. In an interview with Newsweek, Hilton described the support Swalwell received from prominent Democrats and labor unions as 'sickening,' alleging that party leaders ignored long-standing concerns about his behavior to maintain political control. Swalwell, who faces allegations of sexual misconduct including drugging and assault, denied wrongdoing but subsequently resigned from Congress and ended his gubernatorial campaign. Hilton argues this episode highlights the 'rot and decay' of California's one-party rule, asserting that voter frustration will lead to a Republican victory regardless of the Democratic nominee. Following Swalwell's departure, the Democratic primary field has shifted, with Tom Steyer taking a narrow lead in recent polls ahead of Hilton. The controversy has prompted previously supportive Democratic figures and organizations to distance themselves from Swalwell, a move Hilton characterizes as hypocritical political expediency rather than genuine principle.
newsweekAnalysis of Eric Swalwell's Scandal: Sexual Assault Allegations and Unsolicited Images
California Representative Eric Swalwell faces serious sexual assault accusations from multiple women, including allegations of drugging, rape, and non-consensual sexual encounters. One accuser, Lonna Drewes, claims she was drugged before being assaulted in a hotel room, while others describe incidents involving intoxication and memory loss. Additionally, Swalwell admitted to sending unsolicited nude photos to women he met online, including Ally Sammarco. Although Swalwell denies the criminal assault charges, labeling them false, he has acknowledged mistakes in judgment and announced his resignation from Congress. He intends to contest the allegations legally. The article highlights the baffling nature of his behavior, particularly the sending of explicit images via Snapchat while holding high political office and running for governor. This pattern mirrors previous political scandals involving figures like Anthony Weiner. The piece emphasizes that while the sexual assault claims are the most critical aspect requiring investigation by law enforcement and Congress, the unsolicited images reveal a brazen lack of dignity and poor judgment that contributed to his political downfall.
slateSexual Abuse Allegations Prompt Resignations and Calls for Reckoning in Congress
Recent sexual misconduct allegations against two U.S. Congressmen, Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales, have triggered their immediate resignations and intensified calls for a broader cultural reckoning within the legislative body. Representative Swalwell, a Democrat from California, stepped down following public accusations detailed by Lonna Drewes and her attorney Lisa Bloom in Beverly Hills. Simultaneously, Republican Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas announced his departure amidst similar allegations. These high-profile exits occurred just before the House of Representatives returned to session in Washington, D.C. While the swift resignations mark a moment of accountability, many women working on Capitol Hill argue that these actions are long overdue and insufficient to address systemic issues. The incidents have reignited discussions regarding power dynamics, workplace safety, and the need for comprehensive structural reforms in Congress. The article highlights the personal toll on victims and the political ramifications for the involved lawmakers, emphasizing that this moment represents only the beginning of a necessary, deeper examination of conduct and accountability in American politics.
AP NewsSexual Abuse Allegations Prompt Resignations and Calls for Reform in Congress
Two U.S. Congressmen, Democrat Eric Swalwell and Republican Tony Gonzales, resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations, sparking renewed demands for accountability on Capitol Hill. Their departures followed reports of Swalwell’s alleged sexual assault and Gonzales’ admitted affair with a staff member who later died by suicide. Facing potential expulsion votes threatened by a bipartisan group of congresswomen, both lawmakers stepped down just before the House returned to session. While House Speaker Mike Johnson deemed the outcome appropriate for the institution, female lawmakers argued that these resignations highlight systemic failures in addressing sexual predation. Despite post-#MeToo reforms, including mandatory training and faster complaint processes, critics like former Rep. Jackie Speier contend that Congress still lacks sufficient safeguards for victims. The incident coincides with broader investigations into Jeffrey Epstein’s network, where Republican women played key roles in forcing legislative action. This event marks a significant moment in ongoing efforts to eradicate abuse of power and ensure safer workplaces within the legislative branch, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of ethical standards.
abcnewsSexual Abuse Allegations Prompt Resignations and Calls for Congressional Reform
Two U.S. Congressmen, Democrat Eric Swalwell and Republican Tony Gonzales, resigned from their seats following serious allegations of sexual misconduct toward staff members. Their departures came just before the House was set to vote on their potential expulsion, a move threatened by a bipartisan group of congresswomen. Swalwell faced accusations dating back to 2019, while Gonzales admitted to an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. These events have ignited broader calls for accountability and institutional reform within Capitol Hill. Prominent female lawmakers, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Teresa Leger Fernández, emphasized that these resignations mark a critical turning point but argued that deeper structural changes are necessary to eradicate sexual predation in Congress. Despite previous reforms implemented after the #MeToo movement, such as mandatory training and stricter complaint processes, critics like former Rep. Jackie Speier assert that a culture of looking the other way persists. The incident also intersects with ongoing investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting a growing bipartisan push, led partly by Republican women, to address sexual abuse and protect victims within the legislative branch.
chicagotribuneRep. Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has resigned from Congress and withdrawn from the gubernatorial race following severe allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. The scandal erupted after online hints by influencers and former staffers, including lawyer Cheyenne Hunt, led to a CNN investigation revealing patterns of abuse and relationships with subordinates. Despite earlier assurances to colleagues that rumors were unfounded or predated his marriage, nearly two dozen Democratic endorsers abruptly pulled support. An intense pressure campaign, notably led by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and female lawmakers, forced Swalwell out within 100 hours of the allegations becoming public. In a strategic bipartisan move, Democrats also pressured Republican Representative Tony Gonzales to face similar consequences for admitted misconduct. Swalwell, who denied the allegations as false, ended his 13-year congressional career in disgrace. This event highlights a significant shift in accountability within Capitol Hill, driven by a coordinated effort among Democratic leadership to address sexual misconduct and sever ties with implicated members swiftly.
cnnEric Swalwell Exits California Governor's Race Amid Misconduct Allegations
Former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, has officially ended his campaign for governor and resigned his congressional seat following serious allegations of sexual misconduct. This development significantly alters the dynamics of the already crowded California gubernatorial race. The NPR Politics Podcast analyzes the immediate political fallout, discussing how Swalwell’s departure reshapes the field for remaining Democratic candidates. Additionally, the episode explores the broader electoral implications, particularly focusing on how former President Donald Trump’s endorsement of a Republican candidate might inadvertently consolidate support for Democrats. The discussion highlights the strategic shifts now necessary for party leaders and remaining contenders as they navigate this unexpected vacancy. Analysts consider whether the controversy surrounding Swalwell will have lasting effects on voter turnout or party unity in the upcoming election cycle. The report underscores the volatility of the current political landscape in California, where high-profile exits and external endorsements play critical roles in shaping public opinion and electoral outcomes. This event marks a pivotal moment in the state's political timeline, drawing national attention to the integrity and competitiveness of the race.
nprBipartisan Lawmakers Warn More Resignations May Follow Swalwell and Gonzales Exits
Representatives Anna Paulina Luna (R) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D) announced that additional House members could face pressure to resign following the successful bipartisan effort that led to the departures of Reps. Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales. The two lawmakers coordinated separate expulsion resolutions, claiming they had secured sufficient two-thirds support to remove both men over misconduct allegations. Swalwell resigned amid sexual assault accusations, while Gonzales stepped down following scrutiny over an affair with a staffer. Luna and Leger Fernández indicated their next targets could include Rep. Cory Mills, under investigation for campaign finance and sexual misconduct, and Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who faces federal charges for misusing pandemic relief funds. Both accused lawmakers deny wrongdoing. House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the resignations as appropriate but emphasized the importance of due process through the Ethics Committee. The duo argued that their intervention was necessary because House leadership failed to act swiftly, highlighting a shift in how congressional misconduct is being addressed through cross-party cooperation rather than traditional party-line protections.
cbsnewsReps. Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales Resign from Congress Amid Misconduct Allegations
California Democrat Eric Swalwell and Texas Republican Tony Gonzales resigned from the U.S. House of Representatives on April 14, 2026, facing imminent expulsion efforts due to sexual misconduct allegations. Swalwell, who also suspended his California gubernatorial campaign, denied serious sexual assault claims but admitted to past judgment errors in his resignation letter. His resignation became effective at 2 p.m. ET. Gonzales, who had previously ended his reelection bid after admitting to an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide, submitted a brief letter with his resignation taking effect at 11:59 p.m. ET. Their departures shift the House balance to 217 Republicans and 213 Democrats, though the GOP majority is expected to reach 218 with the swearing-in of Rep.-elect Clay Fuller. California Governor Gavin Newsom scheduled special elections for Swalwell’s seat in June and August 2026, while timing for Gonzales’ replacement remains undecided. The resignations highlight ongoing ethical scrutiny within Congress, avoiding formal expulsion votes while addressing constituent concerns about representation and accountability.
abcnewsFifth Woman Accuses Former US Lawmaker Eric Swalwell of Sexual Misconduct
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has resigned from the United States Congress following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. The resignation comes as a fifth woman, Lonna Drewes, publicly accused Swalwell of drugging and raping her in 2018. Drewes stated that her delay in coming forward was due to fear of his political power, and her lawyer announced plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s office. Swalwell, who was a leading contender in the California gubernatorial race to replace Gavin Newsom, suspended his campaign before resigning. He has denied the allegations, describing them as false, and apologized for mistakes in judgment while criticizing colleagues for seeking his expulsion without due process. Previous accusations included claims from a former staffer regarding a 2024 incident in New York City and inappropriate messages sent via Snapchat to three other women. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is currently investigating the sexual assault claims. Republican representatives had previously moved to expel Swalwell from Congress, but these efforts were withdrawn following his immediate resignation. This scandal has significantly impacted the California governor's race and sparked bipartisan discussions on congressional conduct.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraCalifornia Woman Accuses Rep. Eric Swalwell of 2018 Rape
Lonna Drewes, a California woman, publicly accused Representative Eric Swalwell of raping her in 2018 during a press conference held in Beverly Hills on April 14, 2026. Represented by attorney Lisa Bloom, Drewes detailed allegations of sexual misconduct against the congressman. The announcement came shortly after Swalwell withdrew from the California governor’s race and declared his intention to resign his seat in Congress. The Associated Press typically does not identify individuals claiming to be victims of sexual assault unless they choose to identify themselves publicly, as Drewes did in this instance. The event marks a significant development in Swalwell's political career, leading to his immediate exit from electoral politics and congressional service. The allegations have drawn media attention and public scrutiny, with legal representatives present to support the accuser's claims. This incident highlights ongoing issues regarding accountability and conduct among elected officials in the United States.
AP NewsCongressman Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
US Congressman Eric Swalwell has announced his resignation from the House of Representatives and withdrawn from the California governor's race following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. Two women, Annika Albrecht and Ally Sammarco, accused Swalwell of sending unwanted explicit messages and photos via Snapchat, describing his behavior as predatory and enabled by a sense of impunity. While Swalwell denied claims of sexual assault, labeling them false, he admitted to mistakes in judgment and apologized to his family and constituents. The scandal intensified after Democratic influencer Cheyenne Hunt publicized accusations from over thirty women, prompting a congressional ethics inquiry and potential expulsion proceedings. Additionally, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is investigating separate allegations involving a former staff member who claimed she woke up naked in Swalwell’s hotel bed in 2019. Accusers expressed vindication at his departure but emphasized the need for broader accountability to prevent future harm. This development marks a significant political fallout for the Democrat, who has served since 2012, as Congress prepares to review the ethics case alongside other misconduct inquiries.
BBC NewsReps. Swalwell and Gonzales to Leave Congress Amid Misconduct Allegations
Representatives Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales have announced their plans to depart from the United States Congress following the emergence of sexual misconduct allegations against them. This development marks a significant shift in the legislative body's composition and highlights ongoing scrutiny regarding the conduct of elected officials. The decision to leave office comes in the wake of serious accusations that have drawn public attention and political debate. While the initial headline referenced President Trump's social media activity and potential fractures within his political coalition, the core factual update provided in the text focuses specifically on the congressional resignations. These departures underscore the intense pressure faced by politicians when confronted with personal misconduct claims, reflecting broader societal demands for accountability in public service. The situation involves key figures in American politics and signals potential changes in party dynamics and representation within the House of Representatives as both members prepare to exit their roles amidst the controversy.
WSJ.com: PoliticsRep. Eric Swalwell Suspends California Governor Bid Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has suspended his campaign for California governor following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and rape. The article, published by National Review in April 2026, details how Swalwell, a prominent figure in the Democratic resistance against Donald Trump, ended his bid just days after accusations surfaced. Reports indicate that Swalwell, who is married with three children, faces credible claims of predatory behavior toward women on Capitol Hill, including an allegation of raping a former staffer. Despite previously positioning himself as a supporter of survivors during the Kavanaugh hearings, Swalwell now faces public outcry and the withdrawal of political support. The piece highlights the sudden collapse of his political career, noting that key endorsements from figures like Senator Adam Schiff have effectively vanished. The author critiques the hypocrisy of Swalwell’s past moral posturing while emphasizing the severity of the new allegations. This development marks a significant shift in the California gubernatorial race, removing a leading candidate from the Democratic field amidst a scandal that has rapidly dominated political discourse.
nationalreviewUS House Returns as Lawmakers Swalwell and Gonzales Resign Amid Scandals
The US House of Representatives has returned from recess amid significant political turmoil, marked by the resignations of two lawmakers due to personal scandals. Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell of California announced his resignation following multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, acknowledging mistakes in judgment while denying some claims. Simultaneously, Republican Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas stepped down after admitting to an extramarital affair with a staffer, a move encouraged by party leadership. These departures have intensified scrutiny on two additional Florida lawmakers facing potential expulsion for ethical violations. Beyond congressional drama, tensions remain high regarding President Donald Trump’s ongoing conflict with Iran, including threats against Iranian ships during the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, a federal judge dismissed Trump’s $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal. The legislative agenda is dominated by efforts to end a nine-week partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security, alongside debates on restrictive voter ID legislation. The convergence of ethical scandals in Congress and heightened geopolitical tensions defines the current political landscape.
The GuardianRep. Eric Swalwell Exits Congress and California Governor Race Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has announced his resignation from Congress and withdrawal from the California gubernatorial race following serious sexual assault allegations. The controversy erupted after the San Francisco Chronicle reported that a former employee accused Swalwell of assaulting her in 2019 and 2024, claiming she was too intoxicated to consent. Additional reports from CNN cited other women accusing him of various forms of sexual misconduct. Although Swalwell denies the accusations, labeling them false, his campaign collapsed within 48 hours as supporters rapidly withdrew their backing. Facing bipartisan pressure for expulsion from Congress, Swalwell stated he would leave on his own terms to fight the allegations separately from his political campaign. His exit leaves the race to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom without a clear front-runner. Prominent Democrats, including former U.S. Representative Katie Porter and billionaire Tom Steyer, are now vying to secure Swalwell’s former supporters ahead of the primary election. This development marks a significant shift in California’s political landscape, highlighting the immediate impact of misconduct allegations on high-profile electoral campaigns.
AP NewsCalifornia Governor Race Continues After Swalwell's Resignation Amid Misconduct Allegations
The race for California governor is proceeding following the dramatic exit of Democratic U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, who suspended his campaign and announced his resignation from Congress after facing sexual assault allegations. Once a leading candidate to succeed outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom, Swalwell’s departure has reshaped the crowded field just weeks before mail ballots are distributed in early May. Remaining candidates are scheduled to gather in Sacramento for their first joint public appearance since the scandal broke. Meanwhile, new allegations against Swalwell are expected to be detailed by a woman in Beverly Hills. The situation presents an unpredictable opportunity for the seven remaining established Democrats to capture Swalwell’s former supporters. Democrats remain concerned that a divided vote among the more than 50 candidates could exclude the party from the November general election under state rules. On the Republican side, no unified candidate has emerged, with Steve Hilton receiving an endorsement from Donald Trump but splitting support with Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco. The June 2 primary election outcome remains highly uncertain as voters prepare to cast their ballots in this wide-open contest.
AP News