Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell announced his resignation on Monday, following a wave of allegations involving unwanted explicit messages and sexual misconduct. The California lawmaker also withdrew from his campaign for governor.
Swalwell issued a statement apologizing to his family, staff, and constituents for "mistakes in judgement," though he denied claims of sexual abuse. He vowed to fight what he described as "serious, false allegation[s]."
Accusers seek accountability
Two women, Annika Albrecht and Ally Sammarco, told CBS News they feel vindicated by the congressman's decision to step down. Sammarco, who accused Swalwell of sending unsolicited nude messages via Snapchat, said the congressman acted with "total impunity."
Sammarco met Swalwell after reaching out to him on Twitter to discuss political careers. She alleged the congressman believed he was "untouchable" while using the messaging app to send explicit content.
Albrecht, who met Swalpend during a college class trip, said he used the "guise of professional mentorship" to contact her. She alleged he sent sexually inappropriate messages and invited her to a hotel room.
"I keep thinking about how lucky I am that I didn't go to that hotel," Albrecht told CBS News. She added that hearing other women's accounts has been "terrifying."
Recent allegations against the congressman have triggered an ethics inquiry in Congress and potential expulsion proceedings. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is also investigating claims made by a former staff member regarding sexual assault in California and New York.
Cheyenne Hunt, a Democratic influencer, reported that more than 30 women have contacted her with allegations of misconduct since she brought the issue to public attention.
Sammarco suggested the resignation was a strategic move to avoid more severe consequences. "He was pushed into a corner, essentially, because they were planning to expel him," she told CBS News.
