Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) are leading efforts to strip former Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) of his congressional pension following allegations of sexual misconduct. Swalwell resigned from Congress on Tuesday amid accusations from five women, including a former staffer, who alleged sexual misconduct and rape. No charges have been filed, but the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has opened an investigation into the claims.
Hawley introduced the "No Pensions for Congressional Predators Act," which would deny pensions to lawmakers convicted of sexual offenses. Currently, federal law strips pensions for felonies like fraud or bribery but not sexual abuse. Hawley argued that taxpayer-funded pensions should not go to convicted predators, stating, "The only thing the government ought to be paying for, for people like Eric Swalwell is a jail cell."
Boebert echoed similar sentiments, vowing to cancel Swalwell’s pension and those of other lawmakers accused of misconduct. She criticized the current system, where taxpayers fund pensions for former members even after resigning amid serious allegations. Swalwell has denied the allegations and vowed to fight them in court.
The proposed legislation comes as Congress faces renewed scrutiny over member conduct. Swalwell’s case follows the resignation of Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX), who also stepped down amid sexual harassment allegations. Both lawmakers would be eligible for federal retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), receiving roughly $22,000 annually starting at age 62.
Supporters of the legislation argue it would enhance accountability for lawmakers, while critics note that such charges are rare and the measure may be largely symbolic. Swalwell’s case remains under investigation, and no convictions have been secured.