Censure recommendation

Chuck Edwards says he will end reelection bid after censure recommendation

The Ethics Committee this week said Edwards engaged in “persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct towards two young female staffers.”

By Mia McCarthy

Rep. Chuck Edwards announced Wednesday that he is dropping his re-election campaign, after the House Ethics Committee recommended a censure for inappropriate behavior with female staffers.

“After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign. I will complete my current term,” the North Carolina Republican said in a post on X. “Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life. Thank you for your trust, prayers, and support. God bless WNC and America.”

The Ethics Committee this week said that Edwards engaged in “persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct towards two young female staffers.” Edwards cooperated with the probe and did not challenge the findings, though his lawyers argued they did not rise to the level of censure.

His decision came after House GOP leaders and fellow North Carolina Republicans privately pushed for him to exit the race. Republicans in recent weeks were unsure whether Edwards could hold onto his seat.

In a Tuesday night interview with POLITICO, Speaker Mike Johnson declined to say whether Edwards should continue his campaign but said he planned to talk with Edwards about his decision and that he has “a big decision” to make.

Edwards’ decision comes ahead of a Monday deadline for Republicans to replace him on the ballot.