Ethics panel urges censure of Rep. Chuck Edwards over sexual harassment violation

The House Ethics Committee found Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) violated House Rules by "failing to adhere to the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers," according to a 25-page report released Monday.

Why it matters: The bipartisan committee recommended that Edwards be censured after concluding he "violated the Code of Official Conduct by failing to act in a manner that reflects creditably upon the House."

• The panel said it "intends to bring a privileged resolution for consideration and vote by the full House."
• The findings follow Axios' reporting that Edwards singled out two young female staffers in their 20s for special attention that multiple sources described as inappropriate.

Edwards has denied wrongdoing in response to Axios' previous reporting about his alleged misconduct, telling the The Assembly in May that the accusations were "horseshit." He told Axios he would "welcome any investigation."

• Edwards also maintained that he was cooperating with the Ethics Committee.
• Ethics first launched a probe into Edwards on May 14 over allegations of sexual harassment and creating a "hostile work environment"
• Axios was first to report that the Ethics Committee was investigating Edwards.

What's next: The Ethics Committee itself has no authority to punish members; it can only recommend penalties.

• The full House will have to vote on whether to censure Edwards, which only requires a simple majority.
• The House is out of session until Aug. 31, and no floor action is expected until lawmakers return.

Editor's note: This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.