Swalwell exits California governor's race after assault allegations as rivals seek his supporters

Eric Swalwell has pulled out of California's governor's race, and the political fallout widened further after he later said he will resign from Congress.

The latest development adds another layer to a rapidly evolving story that already included public pressure from top Democrats and a House Ethics Committee investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct.

AP reported on April 13 that Swalwell's exit from the governor's race shook up what had already been a crowded and chaotic contest. Democratic House leaders had earlier called on him to end his campaign, and rivals have been working to pick up support from his would-be voters.

The House Ethics Committee said in an official statement that it has begun an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. Reporting cited in the research also says Swalwell has denied the allegations.

Later coverage from AP and The Washington Post said Swalwell would resign from Congress. The research does not provide a timing for when that resignation will take effect.

The race now shifts from a single campaign exit to a broader political and legal fallout story. For now, the immediate questions are how quickly Swalwell leaves Congress and whether the ethics inquiry leads to further action.

The California governor's race is likely to keep reshuffling as other candidates try to absorb the support Swalwell was seeking.