The bipartisan House Ethics Committee says it has found “substantial evidence” that Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) repeatedly made unwanted advances toward two female staff members, recommending that the full U.S. House of Representatives vote on disciplinary action.
According to the committee’s findings, investigators concluded there is sufficient evidence to support allegations that Edwards engaged in inappropriate conduct involving two members of his congressional staff. The report recommends that the House consider formally punishing the congressman on the House floor.
The Ethics Committee, which is evenly divided between Democratic and Republican members, is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct involving members of Congress. Its recommendations can range from letters of reproval to censure or other disciplinary measures.
Edwards has denied wrongdoing and is expected to respond to the committee’s findings as the matter moves before the full House.
If House leadership brings the recommendation to the floor, lawmakers will vote on whether to impose disciplinary action based on the committee’s report.
The case has renewed attention on workplace conduct in Congress and the standards expected of elected officials, particularly regarding the treatment of congressional staff.
