Two US Congress Members Resign Amid Mounting Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Two members of the United States House of Representatives have announced their resignations amid sexual misconduct allegations, marking a significant political development in Washington and influencing the upcoming California governor race.

Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell confirmed on social media platform X that he would step down from Congress, even as he rejected the allegations against him. In his statement, he described the accusations as false while also expressing regret for what he called “mistakes in judgment.” His resignation follows his earlier decision to suspend his campaign for governor of California.

Swalwell, previously considered a rising figure within the Democratic Party, has been facing serious allegations, including a criminal investigation in New York City. One of the accusers has alleged sexual assault at a hotel, while three others have accused him of harassment and misconduct. The House Ethics Committee has also opened an investigation into the matter, increasing political pressure on him in recent weeks.

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Separately, Republican Representative Tony Gonzales also announced his resignation, following sustained scrutiny over allegations involving workplace misconduct. Gonzales referenced personal reflection in his statement, saying, “There is a season for everything, and God has a plan for us all,” as he confirmed his departure from Congress.

Gonzales has faced controversy following allegations involving a former staff member who died by suicide last year. While he has denied any direct link to her death and denied initially having an affair, he later acknowledged the relationship. Additional allegations from another staffer include claims of inappropriate messages and requests for explicit material, further intensifying calls for accountability.

The resignations come at a politically sensitive time, particularly in California, where Swalwell had been competing in a crowded primary for governor. Analysts say his exit could reshape the race by consolidating Democratic support behind fewer candidates, potentially influencing whether a Democrat advances to the general election under the state’s non-partisan primary system.

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