SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is calling on Rep. Eric Swalwell to drop out of the California governor's race following bombshell sexual assault allegations. Reports Friday from CNN and in the San Francisco Chronicle detail a pattern of sexual misconduct from Swalwell, who has consistently polled as one of the leading Democrats in the governor's race. Pelosi has joined a growing chorus of voices demanding Swalwell exit the race. "The young woman who has made serious allegations against Congressman Swalwell must be respected and heard," said Pelosi in a statement. "This extremely sensitive matter must be appropriately investigated with full transparency and accountability." Former Swalwell staffer claims gubernatorial candidate sexually assaulted her: report "As I discussed with Congressman Swalwell, it is clear that is best done outside of a gubernatorial campaign," Pelosi added. FILE - Former Hose Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaks during the Concordia Annual Summit in New York, Sept. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki, File) Pelosi joins other leading Democrats including Sen. Adam Schiff in demanding that Swalwell exit the race. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has also weighed in, calling the allegations "deeply troubling," and saying they "must be taken seriously." Swalwell, who is married with two children, has vehemently denied all allegations. “These allegations are false and come on the eve of an election against the frontrunner for governor,” he told KRON4. “For nearly 20 years, I have served the public — as a prosecutor and a congressman and have always protected women.” “I will defend myself with the facts and where necessary bring legal action,” he continued. “My focus in the coming days is to be with my wife and children and defend our decades of service against these lies.” KRON4 has not independently confirmed any of the allegations. ...read more read less