Jayapal calls for Swalwell and Gonzales to be kicked out over misconduct claims

Rep. Pramila Jayapal is making a strong stand, saying she'll vote to expel two fellow lawmakers-Eric Swalwell of California and Tony Gonzales of Texas-after serious sexual misconduct allegations surfaced from their former staff. In an interview aired Sunday, Jayapal called the issue a matter of integrity, not partisanship, and said she's moved by the courage of the women who came forward.

The allegations against Swalwell are now under criminal investigation by New York prosecutors. A former aide claims he assaulted her after a work-related dinner in 2024. The case has drawn national attention, especially as Swalwell had long been seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, frequently appearing on cable news and holding leadership roles in key committees.

Despite the seriousness of the claims, Swalwell has denied any wrongdoing. His office has called the allegations false and politically motivated. Still, the fact that a district attorney is now involved has shifted the conversation from internal party discipline to potential legal consequences.

Jayapal's call for expulsion is significant because such action is extremely rare in Congress. Only a handful of members have ever been expelled, and it usually takes overwhelming bipartisan support. Her stance signals a growing appetite among some lawmakers to enforce stricter standards, especially when it comes to how power is used behind closed doors.

Meanwhile, Gonzales faces separate allegations from a former staffer, which he also denies. What's notable is that both lawmakers-despite being from opposite parties-are now being held to the same standard. That's something advocates say has been missing in the past, where consequences often depended on political utility.

For years, whispers about Swalwell's behavior circulated in Washington, but few in leadership spoke up. Now, some are asking why it took so long for action to be considered. Critics point out that while the #MeToo movement changed conversations across industries, Congress has been slow to hold its own accountable-especially when the accused are media-savvy or politically connected.

With Jayapal leading the charge, the coming days could see more members weigh in. Whether the House moves forward with expulsion proceedings will depend on whether a broader coalition forms. But one thing is clear: the pressure is mounting, and the usual political calculations may no longer be enough to protect those accused.