Two Lawmakers Resign, Two More Face Expulsion in Congress Shake-Up

Congress Faces Major Turnover Amid Resignations and Expulsion Threats

The U.S. House of Representatives is bracing for significant changes as two lawmakers, Representative Eric Swalwell and Representative Tony Cardenas, announced their resignations. Meanwhile, two other members, Representative Corey Mills and Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, are facing potential expulsion from Congress. These developments come as the House reconvenes, with the exact timing of the resignations and the outcomes of ethics investigations still unfolding.

Resignations Create Uncertainty

Representative Eric Swalwell and Representative Tony Cardenas both stated their intentions to step down from their congressional seats. However, the precise effective dates of their resignations remain unclear. House rules dictate that once resignation letters are officially filed, they are read aloud when the House convenes. If a resignation is effective immediately, the member is no longer in office. If it’s set for a later date, it could temporarily affect the balance of power in the narrowly divided House.

Swalwell indicated he would work with his staff over the coming days to ensure his constituents continue to be served. Cardenas stated he plans to file his retirement papers today but did not specify an effective date. This news comes as the House returns from a two-week recess.

Allegations Prompt Departures and Investigations

The departures are linked to separate allegations of misconduct. Representative Tony Cardenas admitted to an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. While he denies any involvement in her death, the situation, along with allegations of misconduct with other staffers, led to calls for his resignation or expulsion. Many members of Congress viewed Swalwell and Cardenas as a package deal, with pressure mounting on both to address the accusations.

The difference in wording between “resigning” and “retiring” is subtle but carries different connotations. Resigning often implies leaving due to negative circumstances, while retiring suggests a voluntary departure. The exact details of Cardenas’s exit are still being determined.

New Accuser Emerges Against Swalwell

Adding to the scrutiny on Representative Eric Swalwell, a new accuser is expected to come forward in California. Attorneys for this individual claim serious sexual misconduct against the congressman. One of the accuser’s attorneys suggested on social media that Swalwell’s resignation might be an attempt to avoid a congressional ethics investigation.

Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi commented on Swalwell’s decision, calling it a “smart decision” and the “right thing to do.” She added that it would prevent members from having to vote on his status and spare his family further challenges.

Potential Expulsions Loom for Mills and Cherfilus-McCormick

The House may see its membership further reduced by potential expulsions. Representative Corey Mills, a Republican from Florida, is under investigation by the Ethics Committee for alleged campaign finance violations, disclosure law breaches, and potential sexual misconduct. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Democrat from Florida, faces allegations of stealing $5 million in federal funds and using them for her 2021 campaign. These allegations are also being investigated by the Ethics Committee.

The Ethics Committee recently held a rare public hearing regarding Cherfilus-McCormick, finding her guilty of more than 20 violations. A subsequent public hearing is scheduled to announce sanctions, which could include expulsion. Some Republicans have already stated their intention to move for her expulsion regardless of the committee’s decision. Given the House’s narrow partisan divide, any expulsion of a Democrat could lead to calls for a Republican to also face expulsion to maintain the balance of power.

Legal Ramifications and Investigations

The allegations against Representative Eric Swalwell include a potential state crime of sexual assault in Manhattan. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is reportedly investigating these claims. Legal analysts note that such a charge, if convicted, carries a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 25 years in prison.

Unlike civil lawsuits, criminal investigations require proof beyond a reasonable doubt. This means prosecutors must gather substantial evidence, including text messages, surveillance footage if available, and witness testimonies. They will also seek to interview the alleged victim and potentially others who may have knowledge of the events. The investigation will also consider Swalwell’s potential defense, such as denying the allegations or claiming consent.

Beyond sexual assault, other allegations of misconduct, even if not rising to the level of rape, could be relevant in establishing a pattern of behavior. Investigators may speak to other women who have accused him of sexual misconduct to build a case.

Impact on Political Landscape

These events could have broader political implications, especially for Democrats who have been emphasizing Republican corruption as a key theme for midterm campaigns. While Swalwell’s district is considered reliably Democratic, the revelations could still resonate. The “whisper network” that reportedly contributed to Swalwell’s downfall highlights how private concerns can eventually enter the public sphere, often amplified by women and online creators.

The close division in the House means that any changes in membership, whether through resignation or expulsion, will be closely watched. The political calculus surrounding expulsions will likely involve maintaining party parity, making it possible that Mills could face expulsion if Cherfilus-McCormick is removed.

What’s Next?

As the House convenes, attention will be on the official reading of resignation letters and the progression of ethics investigations. The upcoming public hearing for Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick is a key event to watch. The outcome of these proceedings could reshape the composition of the House and set precedents for handling misconduct allegations in Congress.

Source: Swalwell and Gonzales resign, Mills and Cherfilus-McCormick face possible expulsions (YouTube)