Anna Paulina Luna files motion to expel Eric Swalwell as sexual assault allegations mount

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna filed a motion Friday to expel California Democrat Eric Swalwell from the House of Representatives, citing multiple allegations of sexual assault from former staffers. The move comes after reports surfaced detailing accusations from at least four women who say they were subjected to unwanted physical contact and inappropriate behavior during their time working in Swalwell's office.

The allegations, first reported late last week, have triggered an investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney's office. According to the New York Post, the probe focuses on an incident involving a staffer who says she was assaulted while traveling with Swalwell for official duties. The development adds a criminal dimension to a scandal that has already roiled both parties, especially as Swalwell is currently running for governor of California.

Democratic leaders, who once saw Swalwell as a rising figure in the party, are now distancing themselves. Several top officials and major donors have publicly called on him to suspend his gubernatorial campaign. One senior aide close to House leadership said the party can't afford the distraction in a critical election year, especially with the allegations still under investigation.

Despite the mounting pressure, Swalwell has pushed back forcefully. In a statement, he denied all allegations, calling them "baseless and politically motivated." He said he has cooperated with investigators and will not step down from Congress or withdraw from the governor's race. "I've always treated my staff with respect," he said. "These claims do not reflect the truth or the culture of my office."

Luna's expulsion motion is largely symbolic, given the high bar for removing a member of Congress. Only five House members have ever been expelled, and it requires a two-thirds majority-something unlikely in the current divided chamber. But the filing keeps the issue in the spotlight and signals a broader push by some Republicans to frame the scandal as part of a larger accountability message ahead of the midterms.

The situation has also reignited debate about how Congress handles misconduct claims, especially when they involve sitting members running for higher office. Advocates for workplace accountability say the swift public response is a sign of progress, while others warn that due process must be respected, regardless of political affiliation.

With the DA's investigation ongoing and primary season heating up in California, Swalwell's political future remains uncertain. What started as a personnel issue has become a full-blown crisis, testing both party loyalty and public trust in elected leaders.