The current movement to expel scandal-prone members of Congress is intensifying, with significant votes anticipated as the House reconvenes. At the center of this upheaval are Representatives Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, and Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas, both facing serious allegations.
Swalwell is grappling with multiple claims of sexual assault and misconduct, including an allegation involving a former staff member. Additionally, the Manhattan district attorney has launched a criminal investigation into a separate incident linked to the Congressman. Swalwell has consistently described these allegations as “false,” yet he has admitted to a lack of judgment and vowed to defend himself vigorously.
Meanwhile, Gonzales has acknowledged having an affair with a staff member who met a tragic end, raising further controversy. After facing pressure from House GOP leadership, he withdrew from his re-election bid in March and is currently under a House Ethics Committee investigation. As frustrations mount, Representative Anna Paulina Luna from Florida announced plans to propose a resolution for Swalwell’s expulsion if he does not resign. In solidarity, Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez, a Democrat from New Mexico, aims to draft a similar measure targeting Gonzales.
Both legislators are facing expulsion as a growing consensus among their peers suggests they should no longer serve in the House. Representative Byron Donalds from Florida expressed his firm stance during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” stating, “That vote comes to the floor, I will be voting yes on both measures. These allegations are despicable and they demean the integrity of Congress.” His remarks underscore a sentiment shared by some across the aisle regarding the gravity of the allegations against both men.
Representative Pramila Jayapal from Washington echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of supporting victims: “I think that this is very important that we believe women and that we show people across the Capitol and across the country that we will not accept this kind of behavior.”
However, expelling a member of Congress is a formidable challenge that demands a two-thirds majority vote, making the outcome uncertain. It will require substantial bipartisan backing, especially as many lawmakers may be hesitant to vote against their party colleagues. The removal of former Representative George Santos stands as a rare precedent, having been expelled in 2023. He was subsequently pardoned by President Trump in 2025 after being convicted of serious offenses.
As discussions unfold, neither House leadership nor the Democratic and Republican parties have taken a public stance on the potential expulsion of Swalwell and Gonzales. Other members, such as Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Cory Mills, could also find themselves in similar crosshairs. Cherfilus-McCormick faces overwhelming legal troubles, including a long prison sentence for allegations of diverting disaster relief funds for personal gain. Her case is separate from a House Ethics subcommittee investigation which may recommend expulsion.
On the other hand, Mills, a combat veteran, is embroiled in controversy regarding his military service claims and incidents of alleged abuse and misconduct. He, too, is under investigation yet denies any wrongdoing.
With pressure mounting from various corners, lawmakers are facing a critical moment. Each individual case highlights broader concerns about accountability and ethics in Congress. As the matter progresses, it remains to be seen whether the bipartisan effort will yield any significant changes or just further inaction.
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