Two congressional representatives stepped down Tuesday following separate sexual misconduct controversies that had threatened to trigger expulsion proceedings.
Democrat Eric Swalwell of California and Republican Tony Gonzales of Texas both submitted formal resignations to the House clerk. Swalwell's departure became effective at 2 p.m. Eastern time, while Gonzales' resignation takes effect at 11:59 p.m.
Swalwell faces accusations from four women involving sexual assault, harassment, and rape, allegations he has denied. Gonzales acknowledged an extramarital relationship with a staff member who subsequently died by suicide.
The back-to-back departures came as both lawmakers faced mounting pressure from expulsion efforts that appeared poised to succeed had they remained in office. Rather than risk the formal expulsion process, both chose to resign.
Author James Rodriguez: "The speed of these departures suggests both men recognized the math was no longer in their favor on the House floor."
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