Representative Chuck Edwards Censured Over Allegations of Misconduct

Representative Chuck Edwards offered an apology to his wife and family during a House floor session as lawmakers prepared to vote on a resolution to censure the North Carolina Republican for his behavior towards two former female staffers. Edwards expressed regret for the embarrassment and public attention his actions brought upon his wife, Teresa, and apologized directly to the affected women.

“I’m deeply sorry that my judgment and my actions put you in a position where you had to endure embarrassment, hurt, public scrutiny, and questions that no wife should ever have to face,” Edwards said.

The remarks were made before the House voted 413-2 to censure Edwards. An investigation by the House Ethics Committee found that Edwards engaged in “persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct” towards two former staffers, involving lavish gifts, personal notes, comments about their appearance, and invitations to private dinners and vacations. While the committee did not find evidence of sexual activity or explicit propositions, it concluded that Edwards’ behavior created a hostile work environment and violated rules regarding sexual harassment and unwanted advances.

Newsweek contacted House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office for comments on Tuesday night.

What To Know

Despite his apologies, Edwards disputed the Ethics Committee’s main findings. He admitted poor judgment and expressed regret for causing discomfort but insisted that his actions did not amount to sexual harassment. He stated, “Regret is not an admission of sexual harassment,” contending that his conduct stemmed from his perception of friendships with the women.

The censure marks another repercussion for Edwards, who recently announced his decision not to seek reelection after “much prayer and reflection.” Although censure is a significant disciplinary measure, it does not lead to expulsion from Congress or hinder a member’s ability to vote. This vote coincides with ongoing scrutiny over how Congress addresses allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior by lawmakers towards staff, with bipartisan discussions on potential reforms to the ethics and workplace rules in the House.

Update: This article will be revised as the story unfolds.