Bipartisan momentum grew on Sunday to remove two members of the U.S. House of Representatives following a wave of sexual misconduct allegations. Lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle have indicated they would support the expulsion of Swalwell and Gonzales, signaling a rare moment of unity in a deeply divided Congress to address allegations of sexual harassment and assault.
The push for removal targets Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, and Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas. Both representatives are facing separate allegations of sexual misconduct, which have prompted calls for immediate disciplinary action to preserve the integrity of the legislative body. The developments come as a critical test of the House’s willingness to hold its own members accountable regardless of party affiliation according to NBC News.
The urgency of the situation intensified on Sunday, April 12, 2026, as high-profile members of both parties publicly committed to voting in favor of expulsion measures if they reach the House floor as reported by NBC News. The movement suggests that the nature of the accusations has transcended partisan lines, focusing instead on the conduct of the individuals involved.
Bipartisan Condemnation and Calls for Action
The call for expulsion has been echoed by prominent figures on both sides of the aisle. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) appeared on “Meet the Press,” where he stated he would vote “yes” on both measures to remove the congressmen. Donalds emphasized that the gravity of the accusations makes the presence of both lawmakers in Congress untenable.
“These allegations are despicable and they demean the integrity of Congress. These things are just completely unacceptable,” Donalds stated. “As far as I’m concerned, both gentlemen necessitate to go home.”
The sentiment was mirrored by Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), who similarly appeared on “Meet the Press.” Jayapal stressed that the issue of sexual misconduct is not a partisan matter, but rather a fundamental question of belief and accountability.
“I think that This represents very important that we believe women and that we show people across the Capitol and across the country that we will not accept this kind of behavior,” Jayapal said.
Details of the Allegations
The controversy surrounding Rep. Eric Swalwell intensified following reports from the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN on Friday. The reports detailed allegations from at least four women, including a former staffer, who have accused the California Democrat of sexual harassment and assault per NBC News.
Simultaneously, Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas is facing his own set of sexual misconduct allegations. While the specific details of the claims against Gonzales have not been as widely detailed in the current reports, the bipartisan appetite for his removal suggests the allegations are viewed with similar severity by his colleagues.
The Path Toward Expulsion
The process of removing a sitting member of Congress is a high legal and political bar, requiring a two-thirds majority vote of the House. However, the legislative machinery is already moving. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) has announced plans to force a vote to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell next week according to Axios.
The potential for a successful expulsion vote depends on whether the bipartisan support expressed by members like Jayapal and Donalds translates into a formal majority on the House floor. If the measures proceed, the House will be forced to decide if the allegations alone warrant the removal of two representatives before any formal legal convictions have been handed down.
What This Means for Congressional Integrity
The current situation highlights a growing intolerance for sexual misconduct within the halls of power. By framing this as a non-partisan issue, lawmakers are attempting to signal that the standards for personal conduct are absolute and not subject to political shielding. For a global audience watching the U.S. Political system, the outcome of these votes will serve as a barometer for how the American legislative branch handles internal abuse of power.
Key Takeaways
- Bipartisan Support: Both Democrats and Republicans, including Reps. Pramila Jayapal and Byron Donalds, have expressed willingness to vote for the expulsion of Reps. Swalwell and Gonzales.
- The Allegations: Rep. Eric Swalwell faces accusations of sexual harassment and assault from at least four women, including a former staffer. Rep. Tony Gonzales faces separate sexual misconduct allegations.
- Upcoming Action: Rep. Anna Paulina Luna plans to force a vote on the expulsion of Rep. Swalwell next week.
- The Standard: Expulsion requires a two-thirds majority vote in the House of Representatives.
The next confirmed checkpoint in this developing story is the planned vote to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell, which is expected to take place next week. Further updates will depend on the formal filing of the expulsion motions and the subsequent scheduling by House leadership.
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