The House could face a series of expulsion votes targeting multiple members when it returns from recess next week. The scandal surrounding Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), who denies allegations of sexual assault and harassment, is the catalyst. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) announced plans to force a vote to expel Swalwell, while Democrats plan to counter with a vote to expel Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas).
This potential surge follows a pattern where members of the 119th Congress accused of serious misconduct have so far survived efforts to remove them. Lawmakers in both parties are reportedly exasperated by recent ethics and sex scandals. Some are privately considering the catharsis of a significant purge, according to sources.
Expulsion requires a two-thirds majority vote in the House, making any successful ouster a long shot. If the initial votes succeed, further votes to expel Reps. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.) could follow. A House Democrat, speaking anonymously, said many members feel confident the allegations against all four are credible.
The planned votes signal a breaking point in congressional tolerance for alleged misconduct. The outcome will test party discipline and the chamber's willingness to police its own members. A successful expulsion would be a rare and severe historical event.
The situation reflects deep frustration within the institution, but the high vote threshold means political maneuvering will be intense. The coming week will determine whether this frustration translates into concrete action or political theater.