Western North Carolina Congressman Chuck Edwards is being investigated by the House Ethics Committee, according to published reports.
Numerous publications and websites have reported on the investigation, but Axios lays claim to the scoop in an article it posted in late April. CNN reported that the investigation is for sexual harassment, while NOTUS reported that the case involves sexual misconduct with a former aide.
In an email obtained by Axios, a lawyer from the committee said Chair Michael Guest (R-Miss.) and ranking member, Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.) authorized ethics staff to investigate "allegations involving Rep. Chuck Edwards." No allegations were specified.
Multiple aides who've worked for Edwards have received similar communications from the committee, sources told Axios.
Edwards (R-N.C. 11 of Waynesville) is in his second term and is running for re-election. His competition is Buncombe County farmer and Democrat Jamie Ager, as well two minor party candidates.
Edwards, 65, of Flat Rock, represents 16 of North Carolina’s far-western counties in the 11th Congressional District, including Cherokee County..
In a statement, Edwards said, “"I welcome any investigation, given the professionalism my staff has demonstrated and my commitment to serving the people of western N.C. 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 learned about the investigation through Axios, which first reported on it. CNN wrote that the ethics committee “was recently contacted by a witness, who described having witnessed improper behavior.”