House Ethics Committee Investigates Rep. Edwards for Harassment

The House Ethics Committee announced Thursday that it is investigating North Carolina Republican Representative Chuck Edwards for allegations that he created a hostile work environment and engaged in sexual harassment in violation of the House Code of Official Conduct.

In a statement, committee Chairman Michael Guest said the panel is reviewing the claims under its rules but emphasized that the disclosure of the review does not indicate any violation has occurred. The committee will make no further public comments except as required by its procedures.

Edwards, serving his second term representing western North Carolina, welcomed the inquiry and denied wrongdoing. "I am confident the investigation will expose the facts, not politically motivated fiction," he said in a statement. He told CNN he has never had an inappropriate relationship with staff and expects the probe to clear him. "I think you're gonna find that when Ethics completes their investigation that the facts will have caught up with all the gossip and the rumor," Edwards added. His campaign spokesman, Paul Shumaker, echoed that sentiment, stating the review would demonstrate Edwards "has done nothing wrong."