Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina withdrew from his re‑election campaign early Wednesday morning, citing prayer and reflection as the basis for his decision. He confirmed that he will complete his current term in office.
Edwards has represented the 11th Congressional District since early 2023, after winning the Republican primary earlier that year. His departure comes two days after a House Ethics Committee report recommended his censure.
The report details allegations that Edwards engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female staffers. It lists a pattern of behavior that includes lavish gifts, comments on appearance, intimate dinners, vacations, affectionate notes, and invitations to private activities.
The committee found no evidence of sexual activity or explicit propositions between Edwards and the staffers. However, it noted that the staffers were uncomfortable with his behavior and that the power imbalance placed them in an untenable position.
Edwards denied that his actions were intended as a sexual or romantic advance. The report stated that, regardless of intent, a reasonable observer would interpret the conduct as such.
The Ethics Committee adopted the report and formally recommended that Edwards be censured for his conduct. The recommendation follows an assessment that his behavior had a negative impact on the careers and wellbeing of the staffers involved.
In his announcement, Edwards expressed gratitude for the trust, prayers, and support of his constituents, and wished blessings to Western North Carolina and the United States.
