Representative Lauren Boebert plans to draft legislation to nullify the congressional pensions of Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales following their resignations due to misconduct allegations.
Eric Swalwell, a Democrat, resigned on April 13, 2026, after facing accusations of sexual harassment and assault.
Tony Gonzales, a Republican, also resigned amid similar allegations and a looming expulsion vote.
Under current regulations, Swalwell and Gonzales could each receive approximately $22,000 per year in pension benefits funded by taxpayers, starting at age 62.
Boebert argues that it is unacceptable for taxpayers to continue funding the pensions of individuals who have allegedly committed misconduct while in office.
Similar federal laws, such as the HISS Act and STOCK Act of 2012, allow members to lose their pensions and other benefits if they are convicted of crimes committed while in Congress.
Why this matters: This action highlights the growing scrutiny over the financial benefits and accountability of elected officials. It raises questions about whether current laws adequately address misconduct and whether stricter measures are needed to prevent those who have engaged in unethical behavior from receiving taxpayer-funded benefits.
Representative Boebert's initiative to block Swalwell and Gonzales from receiving their congressional pensions reflects a broader concern over ethical standards and accountability in government. The proposed legislation aims to address a perceived loophole where lawmakers can resign amid scandal and still retain significant financial benefits.
Background Context:
Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales both resigned from Congress in April 2026 following allegations of misconduct. Swalwell faced accusations of sexual harassment and assault, while Gonzales faced similar allegations and a looming expulsion vote. Their resignations have opened a discussion about the consequences for lawmakers who engage in unethical behavior.
Actionable Takeaways:
Taxpayers should be aware of how their money is being used to fund the pensions of former lawmakers, particularly those who have faced misconduct allegations.
Lawmakers and constituents alike can advocate for stricter ethical standards and accountability measures to prevent abuse of power.
Consider supporting organizations that promote transparency and accountability in government.
Q: What is the HISS Act and STOCK Act of 2012?
These are federal laws that allow members of Congress to lose their pensions and other benefits if they are convicted of crimes committed while in office.
Q: How much could Swalwell and Gonzales receive in pension benefits?
Under current regulations, they could each receive approximately $22,000 per year, starting at age 62.
Q: What is Boebert's rationale for blocking their pensions?
Boebert argues that it is unacceptable for taxpayers to continue funding the pensions of individuals who have allegedly committed misconduct while in office.
Representative Boebert is working to cancel the congressional pensions of Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales due to misconduct allegations.
Under current regulations, both former representatives could receive $22,000 annually in taxpayer-funded pension benefits.
The proposed legislation aims to hold lawmakers accountable for unethical behavior and prevent them from benefiting financially after resigning amid scandal.
Do you think lawmakers who resign amid misconduct allegations should be eligible for taxpayer-funded pensions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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