Two US House of Representatives members facing expulsion due to sexual misconduct allegations have decided to resign. Democrat Eric Swalwell, who was also a candidate for California governor, announced his resignation while denying the allegations but expressing regret for “mistakes in judgment.” Swalwell, a prominent figure in the party, had earlier suspended his gubernatorial campaign.
Republican Tony Gonzales, who faced pressure to step down following a staffer’s suicide linked to allegations of coercion for an affair, also revealed his resignation plans with a cryptic reference to divine plans. Swalwell is under criminal investigation in New York City after four women accused him of sexual assault and harassment, despite being a married father of three.
The House Ethics Committee is probing the allegations against Swalwell, with a Republican member planning to move for his expulsion. Gonzales, on the other hand, denied any involvement in the suicide of Regina Santos-Aviles, a former staffer who took her own life. However, he later admitted to the affair following the emergence of incriminating text messages.
Gonzales, a married father of six, also faced accusations from another staffer regarding inappropriate requests for intimate photos and sexual favors. Swalwell’s exit from the gubernatorial race in California has reshaped the dynamics of the primary elections, where the top two candidates, irrespective of party, advance to the general election. With Swalwell’s withdrawal, the Democratic Party hopes to consolidate its support behind a single candidate to avoid potential Republican dominance in the election.
