Rep. Chuck Edwards drops re-election bid after censure recommendation over harassment claims
Rep. Chuck Edwards has withdrawn from his re-election campaign following an Ethics Committee recommendation that he be censured for unprofessional conduct toward female staffers. While the committee found no evidence of sexual harassment under federal law, it concluded his behavior violated House conduct standards.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the impact of internal congressional ethics investigations on the political careers of sitting lawmakers.
WASHINGTON — Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., said Wednesday he is dropping his bid for re-election, days after the House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured over sexual harassment allegations. “After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign. I will complete my current term,” Edwards announced in a post on X. “Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life. Thank you for your trust, prayers, and support.” Edwards, 65, had faced mounting pressure over his conduct with two female staffers in his office. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. On Monday, the Ethics panel said it was recommending that the full House censure Edwards after it found that he “engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct towards two young female staffers.” A censure is a formal disapproval by the House.
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