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Swalwell and Gonzales Resign
Rep. Eric Swalwell and Rep. Tony Gonzales officially resigned from Congress on April 14, 2026.
Swalwell's resignation was effective at 2 p.m., while Gonzales' took effect at 11:59 p.m.
The resignations came after weeks of mounting pressure over sexual misconduct allegations.
Swalwell faced multiple accusations including rape, which he categorically denied.
Gonzales admitted to an affair with a subordinate who later died by suicide.
Their departures allowed them to retain pension benefits and avoided expulsion.
Ethics Investigations and Political Fallout
Swalwell's resignation came days after a former staffer accused him of sexual assault.
Three other women also alleged sexual misconduct by Swalwell.
The Manhattan District Attorney's office had launched a probe into Swalwell.
Gonzales had been under investigation since admitting the affair with a staffer who died by self-immolation.
The Ethics Committee only has jurisdiction over sitting members, so the investigations ended with their resignations.
Attention now turns to Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Cory Mills.
Special Elections and Succession
The resignations triggered plans for special elections in California and Texas.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced an August 18 special election.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has some leeway to set the timing for the 23rd District seat.
The resignations set up a rare midterm shuffle in the House.
Republicans will maintain a narrow 216-213 majority.
