By Alex Johnson | Friday, 10 April 2026 at 9:23 PM EDT
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined a growing number of Democrats on Friday in urging Rep. Eric Swalwell to drop out of California’s gubernatorial race following allegations he sexually assaulted a former staffer.
“The young woman who has made serious allegations against Congressman Swalwell must be respected and heard,” Pelosi stated in a message. “This extremely sensitive matter must be appropriately investigated with full transparency and accountability. As I discussed with Congressman Swalwell, it is clear that this is best done outside of a gubernatorial campaign.”
Calls for Swalwell to exit the race came swiftly Friday afternoon from his closest allies and rival Democrats seeking the governorship. A former staffer told reporters she had sexual encounters with Swalwell while he was her boss and alleged he twice sexually assaulted her when she was too intoxicated to consent. In a statement, Swalwell denied the allegations: “These accusations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor. For nearly 20 years, I have served the public as a prosecutor and congressman, and have always protected women. I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action. My focus in the coming days is to be with my wife and children and defend our decades of service against these lies.”
Swalwell’s campaign co-chairs, Reps. Jimmy Gomez and Adam Gray, announced they would immediately step down and urged Swalwell to withdraw from the race. “Today I learned shocking information about Eric Swalwell containing the ugliest and most serious accusations imaginable,” Gomez said. “My involvement in any campaign begins and ends with trust. I cannot in good conscience remain in any role with this campaign, and I am stepping down from it effective immediately. The congressman should leave the race now so there can be full accountability without doubt, distraction, or delay.”
Gomez and Gray were among more than a dozen House colleagues who called for Swalwell’s withdrawal. Additionally, two senators who had supported his gubernatorial bid—Democrats Adam Schiff of California and Ruben Gallego of Arizona—rescinded their endorsements. “I regret having come to his defense on social media prior to knowing all the information,” Gallego stated. “I am equally as shocked and upset about what has transpired. I am withdrawing my endorsement of Congressman Swalwell, effective immediately.”
California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks described the allegations as “deeply disturbing” and urged candidates to “honestly assess the viability of their candidacy.” Tom Steyer, a top Democratic gubernatorial candidate, commended the former staffer: “I commend the brave former staffer who came forward with her story about Eric Swalwell. Speaking out is never easy, and her account must be taken seriously. At a moment like this, we must make sure that women are heard, and justice is pursued.”
Former Rep. Katie Porter also urged Swalwell to drop out of the race and resign from Congress. The California Teachers Association, which had previously endorsed Swalwell, rescinded its support. “The allegations against Rep. Swalwell are incredibly disturbing and unacceptable,” said David Goldberg, the association’s president. “We are immediately suspending our support.”
California’s primary election is scheduled for June 2, with the top two finishers advancing to the November general election.
