Rep. Chuck Edwards drops reelection bid after House Ethics panel recommends censure

Published Aug 5, 09:04 AM UTC

North Carolina Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards announced on August 5, 2026, that he is withdrawing his reelection campaign, two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured for persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two female staffers. The committee's 25-page report found substantial reason to believe Edwards violated sexual harassment and hostile workplace rules, citing lavish gifts and deeply personal texts. Edwards, who serves on the Appropriations and Budget committees, disagreed with the findings but expressed regret for causing discomfort. Some Democrats, including Rep. Pramila Jayapal and the Democratic Women's Caucus, called for his resignation or removal, arguing censure is insufficient. Under North Carolina law, Edwards must submit a written withdrawal request before September 4, after which the district executive committee will select a replacement nominee. The 11th District seat is a target for Democrats this cycle.