Eric Swalwell says he'll step down from Congress after misconduct allegations

Rep. Eric Swalwell has announced he will step down from Congress, days after halting his campaign for California governor amid a wave of sexual misconduct allegations. In a statement, Swalwell said he takes responsibility for his actions and expressed regret to those affected, including his family, staff, and constituents.

The allegations, first reported last week, involve claims from multiple women who say Swalwell engaged in inappropriate behavior, including unwanted advances and misconduct. While no legal charges have been filed, the political fallout was swift. Prominent figures in California and national Democratic circles called for accountability, and Swalwell's support in the gubernatorial race quickly unraveled.

Swalwell, who has represented California's East Bay area in the U.S. House since 2013, rose to national prominence during the Trump administration, particularly through his role on the House Intelligence Committee. He was seen as a rising star in the party, known for his media presence and progressive stances. But his path to higher office has now come to an abrupt halt.

With his resignation, attention turns to how his congressional seat will be filled. California law gives the governor the authority to call a special election, but the timeline remains uncertain. The district, which includes parts of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, is solidly Democratic, meaning the eventual successor will likely come from within the party-but the process could still spark internal competition.

The scandal has also thrown the already crowded California governor's race into further disarray. With Swalwell out, other candidates must recalibrate their strategies, and new contenders may see an opening. The race was already complicated by Governor Gavin Newsom's potential interest in a presidential run, making Swalwell's exit one more variable in a volatile political season.

Swalwell's resignation underscores the ongoing challenges politicians face in navigating personal conduct in the public eye. Even as he steps away, questions remain about how institutions respond to allegations and what standards apply when misconduct claims surface during high-stakes campaigns.

For now, Swalwell says he plans to focus on personal accountability and healing. His formal departure date hasn't been specified, but congressional leaders expect the seat to be vacated in the coming weeks.