U.S. Congress Members Resign Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Two members of Congress, Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales, have resigned amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Swalwell denies accusations of drugging and assaulting a woman in 2018, while Gonzales admitted to an inappropriate relationship with a former staffer. The incidents have prompted discussions about accountability in Congress following the #MeToo movement.
Photo: Andy Feliciotti / UnsplashS. Congress have resigned in recent weeks amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Eric Swalwell, 45, faces accusations of drugging, raping, and choking a woman in her hotel room in 2018, as well as making unwanted sexual advances toward other women.
Swalwell denies the allegations. Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales, also 45, resigned after admitting to an inappropriate relationship with his former staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025.
Gonzales stated he had no involvement in her death. Another woman alleged last week that Gonzales sent her hundreds of sexually explicit text messages. The resignations come amid broader concerns about sexual misconduct in Congress.
Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that such behavior is prevalent among members. She described Congress as a place where similar issues remain unaddressed.
Story Timeline
5 events- Last week
Another woman alleged Rep. Tony Gonzales sent hundreds of sexually explicit text messages.
1 sourceThe Independent - September 2025
Former staffer Regina Santos-Aviles died by suicide amid Rep. Tony Gonzales' admitted relationship.
1 sourceThe Independent - 2018
Rep. Eric Swalwell accused of drugging and assaulting a woman in her hotel room.
1 sourceThe Independent - Last month
House rejected proposal to publicize congressional sexual misconduct investigation records.
1 sourceThe Independent - 2017
#MeToo movement peaked, leading to accountability for some accused public figures.
1 sourceThe Independent
Potential Impact
- 01
Increased scrutiny may lead to policy reviews on congressional harassment reporting.
- 02
Resignations create vacancies requiring special elections in affected districts.
- 03
Public discussions could encourage more survivors to report misconduct in politics.
- 04
Broader awareness highlights ongoing issues in state legislatures nationwide.
- 05
Rejection of transparency proposal delays access to investigation records.
Transparency Panel
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