• Chuck Edwards has withdrawn from his re-election campaign in North Carolina.
• The decision follows a House Ethics Committee recommendation to censure him.
• Edwards faced allegations of sexual harassment towards staff members.
• He denied wrongdoing but acknowledged the committee's conclusions.

North Carolina Congressman Chuck Edwards announced his withdrawal from the re-election race early Wednesday, a decision following the House Ethics Committee's recommendation for censure due to allegations of sexual harassment. In a social media post, Edwards stated, "After much prayer, thoughtful reflection, and many conversations with my family, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from my re-election campaign," according to BBC.

The House Ethics Committee's investigation concluded that Edwards "engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct" towards two female staffers, which included making comments about their appearances and giving lavish gifts. Although the committee found no evidence of sexual relations, it reported that Edwards' behavior generated discomfort among the staff members, suggesting a violation of House rules regarding harassment, according to CBS News and Reuters.

In his statement, Edwards maintained his innocence, asserting that the Ethics Committee's report did not find him guilty of quid pro quo harassment. He expressed gratitude for the support received during his tenure, stating, "Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life," while also confirming he would serve out the remainder of his current term, as highlighted by CBS News and Reuters.