North Carolina Rep. Chuck Edwards Withdraws from Re-Election Campaign

Rep. Chuck Edwards said on Wednesday that he will not run for re-election to the U.S. House, citing personal reflection and stating he will finish his current term. The decision follows a recommendation from the House Ethics Committee to censure him for violating the House Code of Official Conduct regarding unwanted advances toward staff members. The committee’s 25-page report found no evidence of sexual activity or propositions, but concluded the conduct breached the spirit of anti-harassment rules.

Edwards has represented North Carolina’s 11th congressional district, which includes much of the state’s western region, since 2023. The North Carolina Republican Party announced that its Executive Committee for the district will meet next week to choose a replacement nominee for the November ballot. Party chairman Jason Simmons said the committee will select a candidate who will advocate for lower taxes, border security, economic growth, and the values of Western North Carolina residents.