Eric Swalwell remains eligible for pension, congressional gym membership

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, is facing allegations of sexual misconduct and has announced his intention to resign from Congress. However, even if he does resign or is expelled by his colleagues, he will still be eligible for his congressional pension and other benefits.

The 45-year-old lawmaker has denied the allegations against him but has decided to step down from his position in the House of Representatives. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican from Florida, has threatened to move forward with a measure to expel Swalwell if he does not leave Capitol Hill by a certain deadline.

Regardless of how Swalwell leaves his position, he will still receive his pension, federal healthcare benefits, and other perks that are granted to former lawmakers. These benefits include access to the House floor and membership in the Congressional gym.

In a tweet, Rep. Luna criticized Swalwell’s statement about his plan to resign, calling it “not binding and wormy.” Despite the controversy surrounding him, Swalwell will continue to enjoy these benefits.

Swalwell, who is one of the poorer members of Congress, may rely on these benefits as he moves forward. He recently used his retirement savings to supplement his income during his unsuccessful California gubernatorial campaign. In 2024, he earned a congressional salary of approximately $184,000.

The disgraced lawmaker was seen lifting weights at the gym, showcasing his commitment to fitness despite the ongoing controversy. As Swalwell navigates the fallout from the allegations against him, he will still have access to these benefits and support as a former member of Congress.