Trump Endorses Jennifer Balkcom for North Carolina’s 11th District

Former President Donald Trump has given his endorsement to North Carolina state Representative Jennifer Balkcom, who is now the Republican nominee for the state’s 11th Congressional District. Balkcom was chosen to run in place of the previously endorsed incumbent, Republican Representative Chuck Edwards, who chose not to seek re-election.

“It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot, Jennifer Balkcom, who is running to represent the wonderful people of North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District!” Trump announced in a post on Truth Social.

Balkcom expressed her appreciation to Trump through a post on social media platform X. She stated, “THANK YOU, President Trump! I’m incredibly grateful for your support, and I’m proud to stand and fight for the people of Western North Carolina. In Congress, I’ll work with you to continue rebuilding WNC after Helene, deliver real results for our communities, and fight to make life more affordable for hardworking families. I’m ready to get to work,” adding an American flag emoji.

Initially, Trump had endorsed Edwards for re-election, and he won the Republican primary on March 3. However, Edwards announced on August 5 that he was withdrawing from the race.

The announcement came after the House Committee on Ethics released a report recommending censure of Edwards. The report outlined that he “engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct” with two young female staffers. This included providing them with frequent gifts, commenting on their appearance, and inviting them to personal events.

Edwards denied any sexual or romantic intentions, but the behavior described in the report could be interpreted otherwise, including lavish gifts, comments on appearance, and invitations to intimate gatherings.