Former US Lawmaker Eric Swalwell Accused of Sexual Misconduct by Fifth Woman

Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell Resigns from Congress Amid Allegations

US Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) has resigned from the United States Congress, effective immediately. The decision comes after multiple women came forward to accuse him of unwanted sexual contact.

According to reports, a fifth woman, Lonna Drewes, alleged that Swalwell drugged and raped her during an encounter in 2018. Drewes stated that she had delayed taking action due to fear of Swalwell’s political power. Her lawyer, Lisa Bloom, announced plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s office.

Swalwell has denied allegations of wrongdoing. However, he announced his resignation on Monday, one day after suspending his gubernatorial campaign. The accusations had prompted backlash against his campaign, leading supporters to withdraw their endorsements and bipartisan lawmakers to push for a vote to expel him from Congress.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is investigating the sexual assault allegations. In a statement, Swalwell apologized for “mistakes in judgment” but criticized his colleagues for seeking immediate expulsion without due process.

Republican Representatives Anna Paulina Luna and Tony Gonzales have also announced their intention to step down from Congress amid calls for their expulsion over similar allegations.

Source: Al Jazeera