Congressmen Eric Swalwell, a Democrat, and Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, are to resign from their positions following sexual assault allegations that forced their colleagues and supporters to withdraw endorsements.
Mr Swalwell, 45, seeking to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom in California, announced his resignation from Congress and withdrawal from the governorship election on Monday.
“I am aware of an effort to bring an immediate expulsion vote against me and other members,” Mr Swalwell said in a statement. “Expelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong. But it’s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.”
Mr Gonzales announced his retirement in a similar statement.
“There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all. When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office,” said the Republican congressman.
Four women had spoken to CNN detailing accounts of alleged sexual encounters with Mr Swalwell, which they described as taking place without their consent.
A victim said she woke up disoriented and naked beside Mr Swalwell in a hotel room, knowing the congressman had had sexual contact with her without her consent.
Mr Gonzales had an affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, his former employee, who killed herself in September 2025 after details of the sexual relationship became public. The Republican admitted to the affair but said he was not the reason she died by suicide.
Another former staffer had similarly come forward to accuse Mr Gonzales of sexual assault. He denied the allegation and maintained his innocence.
The Manhattan district attorney said the allegations would be investigated, just as the House Ethics Committee announced a separate inquiry into the matter.
