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California Democratic Rep. and former gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell said he plans to resign from Congress, citing mounting pressure from colleagues and an ongoing ethics investigation stemming from allegations of misconduct.
In a post on social media, Swalwell defended himself against multiple accusations of sexual misconduct, which he has denied, while acknowledging what he described as “mistakes in judgment.” He said he has not committed any criminal wrongdoing and argued the claims should be addressed through legal channels.
“I am deeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegation made against me. However, I must take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make,” Swalwell said in the statement.
The situation escalated in recent days after several women publicly accused Swalwell of inappropriate behavior, including a former staffer. The allegations have not been proven in court.
The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into the claims, adding formal scrutiny that intensified calls from both Democrats and Republicans for Swalwell to step down.
Swalwell’s political standing quickly dropped as some Democratic allies distanced themselves from him and urged him to resign, warning that the controversy could become a broader liability for the party.
He had already suspended his campaign for California governor as the allegations gained attention, halting what had been a high-profile bid for higher office.
“I am suspending my campaign for Governor. To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry for mistakes in judgment I’ve made in my past. I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that’s my fight, not a campaign’s,” he posted to X on Sunday.
However, because he suspended his campaign after the state deadline to withdraw, his name will appear on the June 2 primary ballot, according to CalMatters.
Swalwell has served in Congress since 2013. His expected resignation marks a significant shift for a once-prominent Democratic figure. No plans have yet been announced regarding a special election to replace Swalwell’s House seat.
