Former Swalwell Staffers Demand His Resignation, Call for Criminal Probe

The letter marks an unprecedented revolt from Swalwell's own former employees, adding internal pressure to mounting external calls for his departure. The staffers did not specify the nature of the allegations prompting their demand for a criminal investigation, but their coordinated action signals serious concerns from those who worked closest with the congressman.

Swalwell faces mounting pressure from multiple fronts. California Democrats have already abandoned his governor bid, with several party leaders publicly calling for his resignation. The Manhattan District Attorney has opened a criminal probe into sex assault claims against him, further complicating his political future.

The congressman's troubles extend beyond personal allegations. Bipartisan momentum is building in Congress to formally expel both Swalwell and Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) from the House, a rare disciplinary action that requires a two-thirds majority vote.

Swalwell previously faced scrutiny over his relationship with suspected Chinese spy Christine Fang, who targeted politicians through romantic and sexual relationships. That controversy led to his removal from the House Intelligence Committee in 2023, but he retained his House seat and later launched his gubernatorial campaign.

The former staffers' letter represents a significant escalation because it comes from people who worked directly under Swalwell and presumably had detailed knowledge of his conduct and operations. Their willingness to go public with calls for both resignation and criminal investigation suggests they possess information about potential wrongdoing that goes beyond what's already public.

For House Republicans, the letter provides additional ammunition in their effort to expel Swalwell. The bipartisan nature of criticism, combined with internal revolt from his own staff, strengthens their case that his presence damages the institution's credibility.

Congressional expulsion remains rare in American history, reserved for the most serious offenses. Only five House members have been expelled since 1789 – three during the Civil War for supporting the Confederacy and two following criminal convictions for corruption.

The timing couldn't be worse for California Democrats, who now face the prospect of defending a gubernatorial candidate under criminal investigation while his former employees publicly question his fitness for office. Party leaders may face pressure to formally withdraw support and recruit an alternative candidate.

Swalwell's office has not responded to the staffers' demands or indicated whether he plans to step aside from either his House seat or gubernatorial campaign. His next public appearance will be closely watched for signs of how he plans to address the growing chorus of resignation calls from former allies, party leaders, and now his own former staff.