This week brought an unexpected series of developments on Capitol Hill, as two members of the House of Representatives announced plans to resign within an hour of each other, amid heightened scrutiny over lawmakers’ conduct
This week brought an unexpected series of developments on Capitol Hill, as two members of
This week brought an unexpected series of developments on Capitol Hill, as two members of the House of Representatives announced plans to resign within an hour of each other, amid heightened scrutiny over lawmakers’ conduct.
Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) said in a statement posted Monday that he would step down, though he did not specify a timeline for his departure. His announcement followed multiple reports in recent days alleging a pattern of misconduct, including claims of sexual harassment and assault. Those allegations have not been independently verified, but based on the reporting online as well as a very damning press conference earlier today by another alleged victim, he may just be lucky if resigning from Congress is the worst thing that happens to him.
Separately, Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) also indicated he would resign following calls for his expulsion. The controversy surrounding Gonzales includes reports about a past relationship with a staff member, Regina Santos-Aviles, as well as additional allegations reported by the San Antonio Express-News involving inappropriate communications. Those claims likewise remain unverified, but…he is resigning, so there’s that.
Though neither Gonzales nor Swalwell indicated when their last day would be, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) indicated on X Tuesday that she “received word that Swalwell has begun the internal process of switching his staff over to the Clerk of the House. His resignation will be incoming shortly. Same with Tony.”
With Gonzales and Swalwell announcing plans to step down, attention has shifted to the status of other lawmakers facing scrutiny, including Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Ill.). and Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.).
The status and outcome of those allegations remain subject to ongoing review
Cherfilus-McCormick has faced allegations tied to the misuse of federal funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to prior reporting, she was accused of improperly obtaining and using funds connected to FEMA programs, including claims that the money was used in part to support her 2021 congressional campaign. The status and outcome of those allegations remain subject to ongoing review.
In addition to scrutiny from the Department of Justice, the House Ethics Committee has been reviewing the matter. The committee announced in March that an adjudicatory subcommittee found multiple counts in a Statement of Alleged Violations had been substantiated.
Calls for potential disciplinary action have followed, with Luna among those raising concerns. On Tuesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson was asked about the possibility of expulsion as the situation continues to develop, saying:
“I have been a zealous guardian of due process around here,” Johnson told reporters on Tuesday. “I do think certainly on Cherfilus-McCormick, the Ethics Committee has gone through all of its processes, and they found some alarming facts. I think the facts are indisputable at this point, and so I believe it’ll be the consensus of this body that she should be expelled. I mean, that certainly rises to the level that’s needed.”
Politico reported that the House Ethics Committee is expected to meet next week to determine its recommendation regarding Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. Even if the panel does not recommend expulsion, lawmakers could still pursue action on the House floor.
For her part, Cherfilus McCormick arrogantly proclaimed that she had no intention of resigning, but
For her part, Cherfilus-McCormick arrogantly proclaimed that she had no intention of resigning, but Luna made it clear she plans on making sure the compromised Democrat is gone one way or another:
You stole money, and you’re saying there’s no due process? They found you guilty of 25 violations alone.
Unfortunately, it’s not illegal to lie; however, it is illegal to steal money. I look forward to voting to expel you, McCormick.
Ouch.
