Story perspectives

Study Finds 50 Harassment Claims; Gonzales, Swalwell Resign

4/23/2026

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Congressmen Resign

A National Women’s Defense League study found 50+ workplace sexual-harassment accusations against at least 30 U.S. lawmakers in two decades.
The lawmaker resigned before a scheduled ethics hearing, calling the probe a “witch hunt” and saying preparation time was denied.
Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas resigned this month amid expulsion votes on sexual-misconduct allegations.
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell of California resigned this month amid expulsion votes on sexual-misconduct allegations.

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Cherfilus-McCormick Resigns

The resignation instantly removed the House Ethics Committee’s jurisdiction, letting members sidestep expulsion and avoid further sanctions.
Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick quit Congress minutes before an ethics hearing, calling it a “witch hunt”.
The indictment alleges Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick stole $5 million FEMA aid and bought a $100,000 diamond ring.
Resignation preserved her federal retirement benefits, a tactic also used by former Rep. Anthony Weiner.

History

Historical Context

The Civil Rights Act of 1991, passed in response to Supreme Court rulings limiting employee rights, included provisions against workplace sexual harassment. This legislation gained prominence after Anita Hill's testimony against Clarence Thomas during his Supreme Court confirmation hearings in October 1991, igniting national debates on gender and power dynamics. Recent resignations of lawmakers like Tony Gonzales reflect ongoing challenges in addressing sexual misconduct in Congress.

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Congressmen Resign

A National Women’s Defense League study found 50+ workplace sexual-harassment accusations against at least 30 U.S. lawmakers in two decades.
The lawmaker resigned before a scheduled ethics hearing, calling the probe a “witch hunt” and saying preparation time was denied.
Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas resigned this month amid expulsion votes on sexual-misconduct allegations.
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell of California resigned this month amid expulsion votes on sexual-misconduct allegations.

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