The bipartisan House Ethics Committee is investigating Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California over allegations of sexual misconduct. The inquiry will determine if Swalwell violated any conduct codes or laws in his duties, following accusations from a former staffer who claims he sexually assaulted her when she was too intoxicated to consent in 2019 and 2024. The allegations were first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, and three other women have also accused Swalwell of misconduct. Swalwell, who has denied the allegations, ended his campaign for California governor and faces potential expulsion from the House. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican, plans to push for a vote to expel him, with some Democrats expressing support. The Ethics Committee’s investigation is typically conducted in secret and may delay any immediate action against Swalwell.
QUESTION: How might the outcome of this investigation impact public trust in political leaders?
Ethics Committee investigating Swalwell over sexual misconduct allegations
