California Rep. Resigns from Congress, Ends Gubernatorial Campaign Over Sexual Assault Allegations

A California congressman announced his resignation from Congress on Monday, April 13, 2026, and simultaneously ended his campaign for California governor. The decision followed allegations that he raped and sexually harassed women. The representative, aged 45, had been a candidate in the gubernatorial race.

The allegations include an incident in 2024 where a former staffer accused the congressman of raping her after a charity event. The staffer stated she was intoxicated at the time and was left bruised and bleeding after the assault. Additional accusations involve the congressman making unwanted advances toward several women, including sending unsolicited images of his genitals via Snapchat.

Prior to ending his campaign, the congressman received more than $100,000 in contributions from donors in the entertainment industry. These donations supported his bid for governor. The campaign concluded on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

the donors were actors Sean Penn, Robert De Niro, and Jane Fonda.

Records show Penn contributed $15,000, while De Niro and actor Jon Hamm each donated $10,000. Actor Jon Cryer also gave $10,000, as did comedian Kathy Griffin. Producers and executives provided further support.

David Bernad, producer of a television show, donated a combined $20,000. Shawn Ryan, producer of another series, and Alex Baskin, associated with reality television programs, also contributed. Bryan Lourd, CEO of an artists agency, gave $12,500.

The congressman attended entertainment events, including a premiere in Los Angeles in February 2026. He was known for interactions with industry figures. Inquiries to representatives of these donors were not immediately answered.

The resignation and campaign end come amid a sexual assault scandal.

An unnamed political consultant in Los Angeles stated that the congressman's behavior toward women was known in some circles. The consultant noted that the entertainment community plays a role in influencing political power in California and the United States. With the congressman's withdrawal, the gubernatorial race now involves eight Democratic candidates.

These include a former representative, a billionaire, a mayor, and a former state attorney general. Other candidates have received donations from entertainment figures, such as $7,600 from Jane Fonda to one contender and $20,000 combined from actress Rene Russo and producer Marcy Carsey to another.

The race for California governor remains competitive, with candidates seeking support from various donors.

The allegations against the former congressman have prompted discussions about accountability in political and entertainment circles. No further details on the investigations into the allegations were provided in available reports.