In a stunning and rapid fall from power, California Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell announced on Monday, April 13, 2026, that he will resign from the U.S. House of Representatives amid mounting sexual assault and misconduct allegations.

The seven-term lawmaker, who had been a prominent figure on the House Judiciary and Intelligence Committees and a vocal critic of former President Trump, faced intense bipartisan pressure to step down after multiple women — including former staffers — came forward with serious claims.

Details of the Allegations

Reports published in recent days detailed accusations from at least four women. One former staffer alleged that Swalwell sexually assaulted her on two occasions, including an incident in a New York hotel room when she was too intoxicated to consent. Other women accused him of sexual harassment, sending unsolicited explicit messages, and inappropriate behavior while they worked for him or interacted professionally.

Swalwell has denied the most serious allegations, particularly those involving sexual assault, calling some of them “false.” In his resignation statement, he expressed regret for “mistakes in judgment” he made in the past but vowed to fight the more severe claims with facts.

More than 55 former staffers signed a letter calling for his immediate resignation, adding to the growing pressure. The House Ethics Committee had already opened an investigation into whether Swalwell engaged in sexual misconduct toward an employee under his supervision.

Swift Political Fallout

The scandal quickly derailed Swalwell’s promising campaign for California governor. He suspended his bid for the state’s top office just days after the allegations surfaced, with several Democratic allies — including co-chairs of his campaign — withdrawing support.

Bipartisan calls for his exit intensified, with some lawmakers pushing for an expulsion vote in the House. Swalwell cited ongoing efforts for an immediate expulsion as one reason for his decision, stating it would distract him from his duties and that his constituents deserved better.

“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents,” Swalwell wrote. “It is wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”

What Happens Next in Congress?

Swalwell’s resignation will create a vacancy in California’s 15th Congressional District (east of San Francisco), a strongly Democratic seat that he won by more than 30 percentage points in 2024.

• California Governor Gavin Newsom must call a special election within 14 days of the official vacancy.
• A special election process will follow, likely including a primary and general election to fill the remainder of the term.
• The departure slightly shifts the balance of power in the narrowly divided House, though the district is expected to remain in Democratic hands.

The House Ethics Committee investigation may continue or conclude following his resignation, as is common when members leave office. Additionally, a criminal investigation into one of the sexual assault allegations has been opened by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office in New York.

Reactions from Both Sides of the Aisle

The scandal drew sharp criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Prominent Democrats, including Sen. Adam Schiff, described the allegations as “shocking and deeply upsetting.” Several GOP members highlighted the case as part of a broader pattern of misconduct in Congress.

Swalwell, 55, an Iowa native first elected in 2012, had a high-profile career that included serving as one of the House managers during Trump’s second impeachment trial.

ClickUSANews.com will continue to follow this developing story, including updates on the special election timeline, any further investigations, and the broader implications for Congress amid ongoing ethics concerns.

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