SACRAMENTO — Rep. Eric Swalwell denied online allegations that he behaved inappropriately with young congressional staffers, telling reporters after an evening town hall at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Sacramento that the claims were false. He said he never behaved inappropriately with female staff members or had a sexual relationship with a staff member or an intern.

Allegations that Swalwell acted sexually inappropriately with young women have been circulating online for weeks. U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna amplified allegations about his behavior on social media. Conservative media outlets including the Washington Free Beacon and the California Globe have also circulated the allegations.

Swalwell said the allegations that his staff members were asked to sign nondisclosure agreements or entered into legal settlements are false. No staffers were asked to sign nondisclosure agreements in the 13 years he has served in Congress, and no ethics complaints have been filed against him during that period. He said he addressed the allegations because he did not want Californians to question his ethics.

Former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter weighed in on the matter. "I have seen allegations coming from women staffers. They are very, very troubling allegations," Porter said. "It's those women's stories to tell when they are ready, and I hope they feel safe and supported if they choose to do so."

Swalwell entered the campaign to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom in November. In an average of recent polling compiled by Real Clear Politics, he had the support of 13.7% of voters, behind Steve Hilton, who had 14.7%. He expects additional attacks in the coming weeks. His campaign spokesman is Micah Beasley.