Eric Swalwell to quit US Congress after sexual misconduct allegations
Four women have accused the California Democrat of misconduct, including assault and harassment
US congressman Eric Swalwell said on Monday he will resign from the House of Representatives, bowing to pressure from both Democrats and Republicans to leave Congress or face expulsion following sexual misconduct allegations that upended his campaign for governor.
The California Democrat vowed to fight the allegations but said he must also “take responsibility and ownership” of his mistakes.
“Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong,” Swalwell said. “But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”
Separately, Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, also said he would retire from Congress. Both Swalwell and Gonzales had faced calls to leave Congress or face expulsion following sexual misconduct allegations.
Gonzales said he will file to retire on Tuesday when the House of Representatives returns from a two-week Easter recess.
“There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all,” Gonzales said. “It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.”
