Edwards Defends Poetry, Denies Sexual Misconduct Amid Ethics Probe

North Carolina Rep. Chuck Edwards defended himself in a 22-page letter after a House Ethics Committee report found substantial evidence of persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female staffers, prompting a censure recommendation as he retires. He argued that affection, gifts, socializing and even poetry are not misconduct and noted he did not engage in sexual activity or explicit propositions; the committee detailed gifts to staffers—including jewelry, vacations, and other items—and described an incident in which a poem he read to a departing staffer caused discomfort. A full House vote on punishment could occur next month.