WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards of North Carolina said on Wednesday he was ending his campaign for re-election, one day after the House Ethics Committee recommended that he be censured over what it described as inappropriate conduct toward two young female staff members.
Edwards, a Republican who represents North Carolina's 11th Congressional District, said in a statement that he had reached the decision "after much prayer and reflection." He said he would complete his current term in Congress and thanked constituents for the opportunity to serve western North Carolina.
The bipartisan House Ethics Committee concluded that Edwards repeatedly engaged in conduct that crossed professional boundaries with two aides, including giving expensive gifts, making personal comments and extending invitations to private dinners and vacations. The panel recommended that the full House censure him, describing the behavior as inappropriate, although it said investigators found no evidence of sexual propositions or physical misconduct.
Edwards has denied any improper intent. His attorneys argued that the committee's findings did not establish violations amounting to sexual misconduct and said the recommendation relied on vague standards.
The House is in its August recess, meaning any vote on the committee's censure recommendation would take place after lawmakers return to Washington. Edwards' withdrawal from the race also leaves North Carolina Republicans to determine a replacement candidate under state election procedures.
The ethics proceedings remain active, and Edwards has said he will continue serving in Congress through the end of his current term.
