WASHINGTON, D.C. (NCN News) – A western North Carolina congressman is now the subject of an ethics investigation, according to multiple media reports.
CNN, citing two sources “familiar with the matter,” reports Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards is being investigated by The House Ethics Committee regarding allegations of sexual harassment against GOP Rep. Chuck Edwards. Axios was first to report the development.
Details of the investigation are not yet clear.
In a statement to CNN, Edwards said: “I welcome any investigation, given the professionalism my staff has demonstrated and my commitment to serving the people of Western NC. Given the current political environment we are facing in our nation, it comes as no surprise that others with their own political agendas will attempt to raise false accusations in order to create news stories.”
Edwards is running for re-election and faces Democrat Jamie Ager, a Fairview farmer and small business owner. Edwards is a Waynesville native and operates McDonald’s restaurants in Hendersonville, Brevard and Canton.
This development comes amid several members of Congress stepping down amid various charges, including sexual harassment.
One of the most high-profile cases recently involved Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, who not only resigned from Congress but also ended a campaign for Governor of his home state of California. He was considered a major primary contender
Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas also resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations. Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida resigned following ethics violations regarding federal funds. Earlier, Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida resigned in November 2024 and had been considered for the post of Attorney General in the Trump Administration.
This is the most recent story involving a member of Congress from Western North Carolina.
The previous holder of the 11th Congressional seat, Madison Cawthorn, was involved in several legal incidents. He is now running for Congress for a seat in Florida.