Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell and Republican Representative Tony Gonzales both resigned on 14/4, pre-empting formal removal proceedings by the US House of Representatives and avoiding a vote that could have swiftly expelled them from the legislative body.

Swalwell, a Democrat, resigned days after US media reported accusations of sexual assault by a former employee. Three other women also accused Swalwell of sending them explicit photos and messages. The scandal prompted the House Ethics Committee and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office to open investigations. In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson on the night of 13/4, Swalwell admitted to "errors in judgment made in the past" and offered apologies to his family, staff, and constituents. He stated, "I will fight the serious and false accusations against me, but I must take responsibility and face the mistakes I actually made." A special election to replace Swalwell, representing California's 14th congressional district, is scheduled for 16/6.

Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell (left) and Republican Representative Tony Gonzales. Photo: Well News

Republican Representative Tony Gonzales also resigned amidst an investigation by the House Ethics Committee. In March, the Texas representative admitted to an extramarital affair with a former staffer. He also faced accusations of sending inappropriate messages to a former campaign staffer, an allegation he did not admit to.

The proactive resignations by Swalwell and Gonzales helped leaders of both parties avoid a complex and politically risky removal process, a rare occurrence in US congressional history. To date, the US House of Representatives has only removed 6 representatives. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries both agreed with the two representatives' decision to resign, despite not having publicly called for their departure prior to their announcements.

Sources: CNN, SF Chronicle, Guardian.