Rep. Chuck Edwards Withdraws from Re-election Bid After Ethics Findings

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., announced early Wednesday that he is withdrawing from his re-election campaign and will complete his current term representing Western North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District.

“After much prayer, thoughtful reflection, and many conversations with my family, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from my re-election campaign,” Edwards said in a statement. “I will complete my current term.”

The decision comes two days after the House Ethics Committee released a report recommending that the full House censure Edwards. The panel found that he engaged in “persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct” toward two young female staffers and violated House rules by failing to adhere to the spirit of prohibitions on sexual harassment and unwanted advances. The committee said it found no evidence that Edwards engaged in sexual activity with or explicitly propositioned any staff member.

Edwards has denied wrongdoing. His campaign previously said the ethics findings “completely exonerate” him under House rules governing sexual misconduct or harassment and that he did not violate federal sexual harassment law.

In his statement, Edwards described serving the people of Western North Carolina as “the greatest honor of my professional life.” He said he ran for Congress to serve the nation, defend the Constitution and fight for “the common people living in these mountains.”

“This decision has not come easily,” he said. “Public service always requires sacrifice—not only from those who serve, but from their spouses, families, volunteers, and supporters. Teresa and I are profoundly grateful for the countless people who have stood beside us with their prayers, encouragement, and friendship throughout this journey.”

Edwards thanked volunteers, financial supporters, constituents who shared concerns and citizens who placed their trust in him. He said his love for the people of Western North Carolina and his faith in America’s future “remain as strong as ever.”

He also praised his staff, particularly Chief of Staff Toby Douthat and District Director Chris Burns. Edwards said the public often sees only him, while staff members work long hours answering calls, helping families navigate federal agencies, assisting veterans, supporting disaster recovery, advancing legislation and representing the district “with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.”

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve you,” Edwards said. “May God continue to bless each of you, Western North Carolina, and the United States of America.”

Edwards, first elected in 2022 after defeating then-Rep. Madison Cawthorn in the Republican primary, has represented the mountain district covering much of Western North Carolina since January 2023. His withdrawal creates an open seat in the November election.