A political freefall reached its breaking point Monday as Eric Swalwell announced he will resign from Congress following a cascade of sexual misconduct allegations and mounting pressure from colleagues.
“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past,” Swalwell said in a statement, while maintaining he will “fight the serious, false allegation made against me.”
The California Democrat acknowledged wrongdoing but drew a line between what he called personal mistakes and the more severe accusations now under scrutiny. “However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make,” he added.
Swalwell said he was aware of efforts by fellow lawmakers to remove him from office, arguing that expulsion without due process would be unjust. But he ultimately concluded the controversy itself had become untenable.
“It’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties,” he said. “Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”
🚨BREAKING: Eric Swalwell resigns from Congress amid sexual misconduct and assault allegations. The Democrat dropped his bid for California governor earlier today. pic.twitter.com/JbrCWAVZxI
— Fox News (@FoxNews) April 13, 2026
He pledged to work with staff to ensure a smooth transition and continued service for constituents.
The resignation comes just one day after Swalwell abruptly ended his bid for California governor, signaling how quickly the political fallout had intensified.
The turning point came Friday, when accusations from four women were made public, including claims of sexual misconduct and an allegation of rape by a former staffer. Swalwell has denied the most serious charges.
The allegations have triggered an investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, further escalating the legal and political stakes.
On Capitol Hill, momentum was building for disciplinary action. Lawmakers began discussing expulsion, while key allies distanced themselves and prominent organizations withdrew endorsements.
The rapid unraveling marks a stunning reversal for a figure once seen as a rising force within the Democratic Party—and, until recently, a leading contender in California’s gubernatorial race.
Two realities now hang over the fallout.
Swalwell insists the most serious claims are false and vows to fight them.
But his resignation ensures the political verdict, at least for now, has already been rendered.
🚨 IT'S OFFICIAL: Rep. Eric Swalwell is resigning from Congress, HE GOT THE CALL
House Democratic Leadership likely did NOT want to make their cowardly members go on the record to expel him.
An in-party political takedown, took a matter of just a few DAYS.
LONG OVERDUE! pic.twitter.com/Jb48kFPOsA
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 13, 2026
