Eric Swalwell Resigns From Congress Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

The Bay Area representative denies the claims but is stepping down after pressure from fellow lawmakers.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:18am

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A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty government office space with warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of political uncertainty and personal reflection.The resignation of a prominent politician amid serious allegations casts a somber tone over the California governor's race.Fresno Today

Eric Swalwell, a Democratic congressman from the Bay Area, announced his resignation from Congress on Monday amid allegations of sexual assault. Swalwell denied the claims, saying "They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have." However, he said he must "take responsibility and ownership for the mistakes I did make" and is stepping down, with many of his fellow congressmembers prepared to expel him if he didn't resign.

Why it matters

Swalwell was a leading Democratic candidate in the crowded race for California governor, and his resignation could impact the dynamics of that election. The scandal is also sure to bring more attention to the governor's race, though some candidates don't expect it to significantly change the outcome.

The details

Swalwell announced his resignation shortly after suspending his campaign for California governor on Sunday. Because he missed the deadline to formally withdraw, his name will remain on the June 2 primary ballot. In a post on X, Swalwell apologized to his family and peers but maintained his stance, saying he will fight the "serious, false allegation" against him. The decision was pushed heavily by his fellow congressmembers, with many prepared to expel Swalwell if he didn't resign.

  • Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • Swalwell suspended his campaign for California governor on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from the Bay Area who announced his resignation from Congress amid allegations of sexual assault.

Adam Gray

A Valley congressman and Democrat who immediately pulled his support of Swalwell after learning of the claims, calling them "deeply disturbing."

Marsha Conant

The First Vice Chair of the Fresno County Democratic Party, who expressed concern that the scandal could lead to two Republicans emerging from the crowded California governor's race.

Tom Steyer

A Democratic candidate for California governor who said he is not aiming for Swalwell's supporters, but rather "working Californians who need relief."

Steve Hilton

A Republican candidate for California governor who said Swalwell's resignation will probably lead to some consolidation on the Democratic side, but doesn't think it will make much difference in the end.

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What they’re saying

“They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have.”

— Eric Swalwell

“The concern has been that, in this jungled primary, that it could end up being two republicans that come out on top because there's so many democrats running.”

— Marsha Conant, First Vice Chair of the Fresno County Democratic Party

“I don't view myself as aiming myself towards Eric Swalwell's supporters. I view myself as aiming myself at working Californians who need relief.”

— Tom Steyer, Democratic candidate for California governor

“It'll probably lead to some consolidation on the Democrat side. But in the end, I don't think it makes much difference.”

— Steve Hilton, Republican candidate for California governor

What’s next

Governor Gavin Newsom's office says they are reviewing the matter and will make an announcement once Swalwell's seat in Congress is officially vacant. There are also reports that another woman who claims to have "serious sexual misconduct" allegations against Swalwell will hold a press conference in Los Angeles on Tuesday to describe her claims.

The takeaway

Swalwell's resignation amid sexual assault allegations has shaken up the crowded California governor's race, raising questions about the impact on the Democratic field and the potential for further fallout from the scandal. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges around addressing allegations of misconduct in politics and the difficult decisions lawmakers must sometimes make to maintain public trust.