Rep. Chuck Edwards quits reelection bid after censure push
What's new: A House ethics panel found his treatment of two young female aides was “beyond inappropriate,” though short of expulsion-level misconduct.
North Carolina Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards withdrew from his reelection campaign Wednesday, two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended censure over his conduct toward two young female aides. Edwards, 65, said he would still serve out his current term. The committee cited repeated lavish gifts, comments about the women’s appearance and dress, invitations to intimate dinners and vacations, and notes expressing affection. Edwards denied intending any sexual or romantic advance, but the panel said a reasonable observer could see it that way. The committee said it found no evidence he explicitly propositioned staff or had sexual activity with them. Sen. Ted Budd said Edwards made the right decision.