House Ethics Committee opens investigation into Rep. Eric Swalwell over misconduct allegations
The House Ethics Committee has announced the opening of an investigation into allegations of misconduct involving Rep. Eric Swalwell, as pressure mounts following recent reporting and public accusations.
In a statement released Monday, the committee said it is reviewing claims that Swalwell may have “violated the Code of Official Conduct or any law, rule, regulation, or other applicable standard of conduct” related to alleged sexual misconduct, including accusations involving an employee under his supervision.
The panel emphasized that the existence of an investigation does not imply any finding of wrongdoing, noting that the inquiry is part of its standard review process.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny after media reports cited allegations from a former staffer accusing Swalwell of sexual assault, describing an incident involving alcohol and claims that she was not able to consent. Swalwell has strongly denied the allegation.
Additional reports have also cited claims from other women alleging inappropriate conduct, including unsolicited explicit messages and images. These allegations have not been independently adjudicated.
Swalwell, who recently suspended his campaign for California governor, addressed the situation publicly, apologizing for what he described as past “mistakes in judgment” while rejecting the most serious allegations.
“To my family, staff, friends, and supporters, I am deeply sorry,” he wrote, adding that he would “fight the serious, false allegations” being made against him.
Calls for accountability have increased in Washington as the investigation proceeds, though no formal conclusions have been reached.
