Chuck Edwards of North Carolina Will Not Seek Re-election After Ethics Panel Found He Fostered a Hostile Work Environment

Republican US Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina announced he will not seek re-election after the House ethics committee found he fostered a hostile work environment and sexually harassed two young female staffers by giving gifts and lavishing attention on them. Edwards, whose term ends in January, said in a Wednesday social media statement that he would complete his current term, adding, "After much prayer and reflection, I've decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign.

The bipartisan panel recommended censure on Monday, which would require Edwards to stand in the House well while a rebuke is read. The committee's report, approved by both parties, cited "substantial reason to believe" he broke House rules, though it found no evidence of sexual activity or suggestions of it. Edwards acknowledged some behavior could be viewed as inappropriate but did not take responsibility for the harm caused. His western North Carolina district was already rated a "toss-up by Sabato's Crystal Ball last week.