The bipartisan US House Ethics Committee has recommended that US Representative Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) be censured. The committee found that Edwards violated House Rules by failing to adhere to the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers.
The probe into Edwards was launched on May 14 following allegations of sexual harassment and the creation of a 'hostile work environment.' In its findings, the committee stated that Edwards's conduct with two young staff members was 'highly unprofessional.'
The committee concluded that Edwards violated the Code of Official Conduct by failing to act in a manner that reflects creditably upon the House. Axios reported that Edwards singled out two female staffers in their 20s for special attention that multiple sources described as inappropriate.
Next steps and response
The US House Ethics Committee intends to bring a privileged resolution for consideration and vote by the full House. While the committee can recommend penalties, it has no authority to punish members directly. A censure of Edwards by the full House requires a simple majority.
The accusations were 'horseshit'.
Edwards denied any wrongdoing regarding the allegations of misconduct. Speaking to Axios, Edwards said he would 'welcome any investigation.'
