Congressman Resigns Amid Allegations; US Tensions Rise With Iran

Congressman Eric Swalwell Resigns Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

California Congressman Eric Swalwell has announced his resignation from Congress and withdrawal from the governor’s race. This decision follows accusations of sexual misconduct, which Swalwell denies. The allegations, first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, claim he assaulted a woman twice while she worked for him, including incidents where she was too intoxicated to consent. CNN reports that three other women have also accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct.

Swalwell has strongly denied the allegations, stating they are “flat false” and “absolutely false.” He acknowledged making past mistakes in judgment but emphasized those were personal matters. Both parties have called for accountability, with House Democratic Leader Hakee Jeff pushing for an ethics investigation. The House Ethics Committee has launched an investigation into whether Swalwell violated congressional conduct rules, though they note this does not confirm any wrongdoing. Prosecutors in Manhattan and Alameda County are also reviewing the claims.

US Naval Blockade Tightens in Strait of Hormuz; Iran Nuclear Program Targeted

The United States has implemented a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump is demanding that Iran cease its nuclear program, warning that a deal will not be reached if Iran pursues nuclear weapons. This action follows failed peace talks in Pakistan over the weekend.

“We’re not going to let a country blackmail or extort the world,” President Trump stated, emphasizing the US does not need Iran’s trade. The US Central Command announced the blockade will be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports. The UK Maritime Trade Operations Agency confirmed these maritime restrictions are in effect.

President Trump also warned that other nations working to prevent Iran from selling oil would be effective. He declared that Iran’s navy has been “obliterated,” with 158 ships destroyed. However, he cautioned that Iran’s fast attack ships would be “immediately eliminated” if they approach the blockade. The President has also criticized the New York Times for what he calls “corrupt” coverage that he believes undermines US victories against Iran.

International Efforts to Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions

The US is actively working to clear the Strait of Hormuz after Iran placed mines in the critical waterway. Central Command has begun establishing a new, safe passage for maritime traffic to encourage the free flow of commerce. The Strait of Hormuz is described as an essential trade corridor supporting regional and global economic prosperity.

British Prime Minister Keer Starmer stated that the UK has mine-sweeping capabilities and hopes negotiations will continue. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed Australia’s ships are ready to assist, though they have not yet been asked to do so. The Prime Minister of Qatar has urged Iran to reopen the strait, warning that disruptions could have serious consequences for regional and global energy and food supplies.

Israel Strikes Hezbollah Targets; Lebanon Talks Loom

Israeli forces have reported striking approximately 150 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon over a 24-hour period. These strikes targeted rocket launchers, drones, and command centers, supporting troops engaged in close-quarters combat. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that enemies like Iran and Hezbollah are now “fighting for their survival.”

Hezbollah appears to be using tactics similar to Hamas, with Israeli troops discovering an underground tunnel and military-grade weapons stored in a hospital. Lebanese state media reported an Israeli airstrike hit a Red Cross facility. Lebanon and Israel are scheduled to hold talks in Washington, where Lebanon aims to push for a ceasefire, while Israel has indicated a ceasefire is not on the table.

US-Indonesia Defense Partnership and Congressional Agenda

The United States and Indonesia are establishing a significant defense partnership. This agreement includes exploring cutting-edge programs like asymmetric capabilities, next-generation defense technologies, and enhanced joint special forces training. The two nations are also discussing granting US military aircraft access to Indonesian airspace for emergency and crisis response missions.

Congress has returned from its spring recess with a busy agenda. Key priorities include passing a budget package for immigration enforcement and addressing US military actions in Iran. Senate Republicans are advancing a budget plan to fund the Department of Homeland Security for three years. Lawmakers may also face a vote on limiting the administration’s ability to conduct military operations abroad without congressional approval.

Documents Suggest Coordinated Effort to Impeach Trump in 2019

Newly released documents suggest a coordinated effort to manufacture a conspiracy used to impeach President Trump in 2019. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated that the whistleblower lacked firsthand knowledge of President Trump’s call with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky. The documents reportedly show that the initial investigation relied on politicized actors and lacked firsthand evidence.

Religious Liberty Commission Discusses New York Nuns’ Lawsuit

The Religious Liberty Commission held its final meeting before submitting recommendations to the White House. The commission discussed a lawsuit filed by the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne in New York. The nuns are suing the state over its Equality Act, which they claim forces them to undergo gender ideology training and provide gender-affirming services, even against their religious beliefs.

The sisters, who operate a hospice home without charging fees or accepting insurance, could face fines, loss of license, or prison time if they do not comply. They view their work as an expression of their faith. The Religious Liberty Commission was established by President Trump in May 2025 to advise on religious liberty policies.

White House Ballroom Construction Continues Amid Legal Challenge

Construction on the new White House ballroom will continue for now after a federal appeals court reversed a lower court’s decision to pause the project. A district court judge had blocked construction, arguing it required Congressional approval. The appeals panel has sent the case back to the judge for clarification on whether the injunction interferes with the administration’s safety and security plans.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation sued, arguing the administration lacks authority over federal property. The administration contends that delays could put critical security features planned for beneath the ballroom at risk. Construction is permitted to proceed at least until April 17th, allowing time for further legal action.

Texas AG Investigates Lululemon for PFAS Chemicals

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is investigating Lululemon regarding the potential presence of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in its activewear. These chemicals are known for their persistence in the environment and are linked to harmful health effects. Paxton stated that Lululemon will be held accountable if it has violated Texas law.

White House Report Identifies Major Housing Shortage

A new White House report indicates a shortage of 10 million homes in the United States. The report attributes this deficit to regulations on home construction, including building codes and zoning approval fees. The report estimates that reducing regulatory costs could lead to the construction of up to 13 million homes, potentially boosting economic growth and creating jobs.

Trump Administration Promotes “Trump Accounts” for Children

The White House is using a humorous video featuring a toddler to promote “Trump accounts,” a financial program designed for children. The program encourages early investment in a child’s name, aiming to help them build wealth for future expenses like college or starting a business.

President Trump Warns China on Arming Iran; Blockade Impacts Trade

President Trump has warned China that it could face a 50% tariff if it is caught arming Iran. This warning comes as the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has reportedly turned away at least two Chinese oil tankers flying false flags. China is a major purchaser of Iranian oil, with the Strait of Hormuz accounting for a significant portion of its oil supply.

The report suggests that China’s provision of advanced air defense systems to Iran, which were then destroyed by US and Israeli forces, could damage China’s reputation for military technology. This situation is seen as putting economic and military pressure on China, potentially giving President Trump an advantage in upcoming face-to-face talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Former diplomat Bart Marquis expects Iran to attempt actions and China to try supplying them. He believes China has already supplied Iran with hypersonic anti-ship missiles.

Source: Rep. Swalwell to Resign From Office; US Blockade of Iran's Ports Begins | NTD Evening News (Apr. 13) (YouTube)