House Ethics recommends censure for GOP lawmaker in sexual harassment probe

The House Ethics Committee has recommended censuring North Carolina Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards following an investigation into sexual harassment and hostile workplace allegations. The committee stated there is "substantial reason to believe" Edwards violated House rules concerning his conduct toward two young female staffers.

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substantial reason to believe

The committee's report detailed "persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct" by Edwards. It found he violated the House Code of Official Conduct by failing to adhere to rules prohibiting sexual harassment and unwanted advances. The report noted that Edwards denies his conduct was sexual or romantic, but the panel concluded that "his pattern of behavior would lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such."

Specific actions cited in the report include providing lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments about the staffers' appearance and dress, and inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations. The committee also mentioned notes expressing effusive affection and invitations to other activities as a way to spend time together.

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persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct towards two young female staffers

While the committee found no evidence of sexual activity or explicit propositions, it stated that Edwards was aware that his "excessive attention" had led to rumors and innuendo in the office. The two women staffers reportedly felt uncomfortable with his behavior, which they attempted to communicate, but were placed in an "untenable position" due to his status as their boss and a Member of Congress.

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his pattern of behavior would lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such, including providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, sending notes regarding his effusive affection, and inviting them to other activities as a way to spend time together.

The investigation involved reviewing nearly 1,500 pages of evidence, conducting 16 witness interviews, and seeking documentary evidence. Edwards agreed to waive procedures for the committee to recommend a sanction on the House floor.

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Both women were uncomfortable with his behavior (which they attempted to communicate) but were put in an untenable position by virtue of his status as their boss and a Member of Congress.