Eric Swalwell steps down from Congress as misconduct allegations surface

California Representative Eric Swalwell has officially stepped down from Congress after a wave of sexual misconduct allegations surfaced from multiple women. In a statement, Swalwell said he would fight what he called "serious, false allegations," but acknowledged the need to take responsibility amid the mounting pressure. "This is not how I wanted to leave public service," he added, confirming his resignation on Monday morning.

At least four women have come forward with accounts of inappropriate behavior, according to sources familiar with the investigations. Two of them spoke directly with CBS News, describing unsettling encounters they say occurred in professional settings. The details, while varying in context, center on claims of unwanted advances and boundary violations over several years. None of the allegations have resulted in criminal charges, and no formal findings have been made by congressional ethics panels.

Swalwell, who had served in the House since 2013, was once seen as a rising figure in the Democratic Party. He ran for president in 2020 and later gained national attention during his role in the January 6 committee. In recent years, he positioned himself as a strong voice on national security and tech policy. His resignation now leaves a vacancy in California's 14th district, triggering a special election likely to draw intense interest from both parties.

The announcement came on the same day that another U.S. representative resigned under similar circumstances, marking a rare one-day double exit from the House. While the cases are unrelated, the timing has reignited conversations about accountability and oversight in Congress, especially around how misconduct complaints are handled behind closed doors.

Reaction from Capitol Hill has been measured. Democratic leaders expressed regret over the situation but avoided detailed comment, citing the sensitivity of ongoing discussions. Republican lawmakers, meanwhile, called for broader ethics reforms, with some pointing to what they describe as a pattern of leniency toward members accused of misconduct.

Swalwell maintains his innocence, saying the allegations do not reflect his values or conduct. "I have always tried to treat people with respect," he said in his statement. "These claims are not true, but I cannot allow this to become a distraction from the work the country needs."

As the investigation continues, attention turns to how quickly the House will fill the seat and whether these resignations prompt lasting changes in how Congress addresses personal conduct among its members. For now, the departures serve as a stark reminder of how quickly political careers can shift under personal scrutiny.