Republican Chuck Edwards drops bid for re-election after report finding sexual harassment of staffers

Chuck Edwards announced he would not run for re-election after the US House of Representatives ethics committee determined the US congressman “fostered a hostile work environment and engaged in sexual harassment” by giving gifts and lavishing attention on two young female staffers.

Edwards, a Republican for North Carolina, said he would complete his current term, which is due to end in January.

In a statement posted on social media early on Wednesday morning, Edwards said: “After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign. I will complete my current term. Serving sestern North Carolina has been the honor of my life. Thank you for your trust, prayers, and support”

The bipartisan congressional ethics panel recommended on Monday that Edwards face censure over its findings. Should the House agree, he will have to stand in the well of the chamber while the text of a resolution rebuking him is read aloud.

The ethics committee launched an investigation into Edwards earlier this year, after receiving complaints about his conduct. In a report approved by Democratic and Republican committee members, it said there was “substantial reason to believe” that Edwards had broken House rules by singling out the two unidentified aides for special treatment that made them uncomfortable and harmed relations with other employees.

While the investigation uncovered no evidence that Edwards engaged in sexual activity with the staffers or suggested it, his behavior likely violated provisions in the House code of conduct that prohibit sexual harassment and unwanted advances.

The congressman “acknowledged at least some of the behavior at issue could be viewed as inappropriate”, but “has not acknowledged or taken responsibility for the harm he caused”, the committee wrote in its report.

Edwards was already viewed as vulnerable to losing re-election to his western North Carolina district in the November midterm elections. Last week election forecaster Sabato’s Crystal Ball announced it was rating his race a “toss-up”, in a sign of improving Democratic chances.