On this week’s episode of Highway to Hill: The vibes are bad in the House as multiple scandals collide. Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales resign following revelations of sexual misconduct and worse — but what about Cory Mills and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who have actual legal charges against them and don’t seem to be going anywhere? Charlie and SoRelle break down the scandals, the reasons behind the resignations, and what to do when the House Ethics Committee is basically useless.
Then, in the Gavel Drop: Democrats might actually have a shot at picking up Gonzales’ district; meanwhile, Congress fights over FISA reauthorization; conservatives won’t budge even after a White House dinner; and why forcing Congress to update surveillance laws for the AI era is actually them doing their job.
This week’s syllabus 📚
* “Rep. Eric Swalwell resigns, denies sexual assault allegations” (Nina Heller and Valerie Yurk, Roll Call)
* “Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales to resign amid misconduct allegations; special election looms” (David Martin Davies, Texas Public Radio)
* “Note to lawmakers: your office does not belong to you” (Charlie Hunt, You Are Here)
* “In Congress, ‘see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil’” (Valerie Yurk and Nina Heller, Roll Call)
* “Why House Republicans are protecting Cory Mills” (Riley Rogerson and Hailey Fuchs, POLITICO)
* “Swalwell staffers in unsigned statement: ‘We’re horrified’ by accusations” (Dustin Gardiner, POLITICO)
* “Rep. Swalwell is facing calls for expulsion. Here’s how it would work.” (Casey Burgat, Crash Course)
* “Why Congress Struggles to Police Itself” (Casey Burgat, Crash Course)
* “What happens to Eric Swalwell’s congressional seat?” (David Manoucheri, KCRA)
* “Mike Johnson delays FISA renewal vote after conservative revolt” (Kate Santaliz, Axios)
