Congressman DeSaulnier Condemns Former Colleagues in Congress Scandal

DeSaulnier calls for integrity and justice as Swalwell and Gonzales resign amid allegations

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:38pm

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A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty congressional office desk, with warm sunlight streaming in through the window and deep shadows cast across the surface, conveying a sense of political disillusionment and the gravity of ethical breaches.The resignations of two scandal-plagued members of Congress reflect a growing need for greater accountability and integrity within the halls of power.Gonzales Today

Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) has released a statement condemning the recent resignations of Representatives Eric Swalwell (CA-14) and Tony Gonzales (TX-23) from Congress. DeSaulnier cited the alleged behavior of Swalwell and Gonzales as an attack on the integrity of Congress, stating that they were unfit to serve the public and that their constituents deserve better.

Why it matters

The resignations of Swalwell and Gonzales highlight the ongoing issues of ethics and accountability within the U.S. Congress. DeSaulnier's strong condemnation of their alleged actions underscores the need for greater transparency and responsibility from elected officials, particularly those in positions of power.

The details

In his statement, DeSaulnier said that while Swalwell and Gonzales have a right to due process, serving in Congress is a privilege and a sacred responsibility to the public. He expressed horror at the allegations against Swalwell and stated his commitment to ensuring justice for all victims.

  • On April 16, 2026, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier released his statement.

The players

Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

A Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California's 10th congressional district.

Representative Eric Swalwell

A former Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California's 14th congressional district, who recently resigned amid allegations.

Representative Tony Gonzales

A former Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Texas's 23rd congressional district, who recently resigned amid allegations.

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What they’re saying

“The departures of Mr. Swalwell and Mr. Gonzales from Congress represent steps in a more constructive direction. While they have a right to due process and their individual day in court, it is both a privilege and a sacred responsibility to the public, not a right, to serve in the House of Representatives. Their alleged behavior is an attack on the integrity of the Congress and made them unfit to serve the American public in Congress. Their constituents deserve better.”

— Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

What’s next

The House Ethics Committee is expected to investigate the allegations against Swalwell and Gonzales further, and the Department of Justice may also pursue criminal charges.

The takeaway

This scandal highlights the ongoing need for greater accountability and integrity within the U.S. Congress, as elected officials must be held to the highest standards of conduct in order to maintain public trust.