In the same week that America is running a naval blockade in the Gulf and fighting with the Pope, two members of Congress quietly resigned in disgrace.
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell of California and Republican Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas both stepped down Tuesday, hours ahead of expected expulsion votes. Both faced serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving women who had worked for them, a direct violation of House rules.
Swalwell, once a prominent Trump impeachment manager and California governor candidate, was accused by five women of sexual misconduct and rape. The Manhattan DA has opened a criminal investigation. He admitted to mistakes but denied criminal wrongdoing.
Gonzales admitted to an extramarital affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. A second staffer told NBC News he sent her repeated sexually explicit messages asking for sex and nude photos.
What makes this week unusual is the bipartisan nature of the pressure. Members from both parties were prepared to vote for expulsion of both men simultaneously, a rare moment of cross-party accountability on Capitol Hill.
It is not over. Two more members, one from each party, still face potential expulsion. A Florida Democrat faces fraud charges. A Florida Republican faces allegations including sexual misconduct and domestic violence.
Congress has a problem. The Iran war is just making it easier to ignore.
Sources: CNN · NBC News · NBC New York · Texas Tribune · Fox News · Christian Science Monitor · PBS · Deseret News
