House Returns from Recess Facing Expulsion Votes, Iran War Developments and DHS Funding Stalemate
Lawmakers return to Washington this week amid pushes to expel several members over misconduct allegations. The agenda also includes debates on the ongoing war with Iran and efforts to end a Department of Homeland Security shutdown. Expulsion resolutions require a two-thirds majority, while war powers and funding issues divide parties.
The House of Representatives returns from a two-week recess on Tuesday, with expulsion resolutions targeting multiple members over sexual misconduct and ethics allegations topping the agenda. Several lawmakers from both parties have signaled support for removing the members, citing the need to uphold congressional integrity.
The votes could test party lines, as expelling a member requires a two-thirds majority.
Rep. , faces allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, including an incident involving a former staffer. The Manhattan district attorney's office has opened a criminal investigation into an alleged incident in New York City.
Swalwell dropped out of California's 2026 gubernatorial race on Sunday and has described the allegations as false while acknowledging a lack of judgment. Swalwell pledged to defend himself vigorously. Two Democratic representatives have called for his exit from Congress.
A Republican representative stated she would introduce a resolution to expel him if he does not resign. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, admitted to an affair with a staff member who later died by self-immolation.
He dropped his re-election bid in March after House GOP leadership urged him to suspend his campaign. Gonzales is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee. A Democratic representative plans to draft a measure to expel Gonzales.
Lawmakers from both parties, including a Republican who said he would vote yes on both expulsion measures, have expressed support for the removals. The representative described the allegations as despicable and unacceptable.
Story Timeline
6 events- April 12, 2026
Swalwell drops out of California gubernatorial race and acknowledges lack of judgment amid allegations.
1 sourceFox News - April 12, 2026
Trump announces U.S. Navy blockade of Strait of Hormuz.
1 sourceCBS News - Weekend before April 13, 2026
Vice President JD Vance leaves Islamabad after failed talks on Iran war.
1 sourceCBS News - March 2026
Gonzales drops re-election bid after GOP leadership urging.
1 sourceFox News - March 2026
House Ethics subcommittee finds Cherfilus-McCormick guilty of violations.
1 sourceFox News - February 14, 2026
Department of Homeland Security shutdown begins due to funding impasse.
1 sourceCBS News
Potential Impact
- 01
Strait of Hormuz blockade escalates Iran conflict tensions.
- 02
DHS funding agreement ends shutdown and redirects employee pay.
- 03
Expulsion votes divide House parties and test leadership influence.
- 04
Democrats force war powers votes that could limit presidential actions in Iran.
- 05
Reconciliation process advances ICE and CBP funding by June 1.
- 06
Ethics recommendations lead to further punishments for investigated members.
Transparency Panel
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