Eric Swalwell

Eric Swalwell, a Democratic Representative from California, has been embroiled in multiple scandals and allegations related to sexual misconduct. In April 2026, numerous women publicly accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, including allegations of rape, inappropriate messaging, and sending unsolicited explicit images. One woman claimed that Swalwell raped her in 2018 after she believed he drugged her drink, and she described feeling incapacitated and choked during the incident. Several other women alleged inappropriate conduct, including sending provocative messages and engaging in sexual assault while she was intoxicated (ABC News, CBS News). In response to these allegations, Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress on April 13, 2026, stating that he would step down to focus on defending himself against what he called "serious, false allegations" (NBC News, NBC News). The House Ethics Committee had initiated an investigation into the allegations, but Swalwell’s resignation effectively ended this inquiry, as the committee only has jurisdiction over sitting members (NBC News). Swalwell’s resignation followed a series of reports and mounting pressure from both colleagues and the public. He has consistently denied the allegations, calling them "flat false," and described the accusations as a political hit job (ABC News). Additionally, law enforcement agencies, including the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, have opened investigations into some of the allegations, but no criminal charges have been publicly reported or resulted in convictions as of May 2026.