ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards, a North Carolina Republican, is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee, according to reports from Axios and CNN.
Axios first reported April 30 that the committee had opened a probe into Edwards, though it did not specify the nature of the allegations. CNN later reported the investigation involves allegations of sexual harassment, citing two sources familiar with the matter.
According to CNN, the House Ethics Committee was recently contacted by a witness who described observing improper behavior. The exact nature of the alleged conduct has not been publicly detailed, and it is unclear whether investigators have corroborated the claims.
In a statement to CNN, Edwards denied wrongdoing and welcomed the investigation.
“I welcome any investigation, given the professionalism my staff has demonstrated and my commitment to serving the people of Western NC,” Edwards said in a statement to CNN. “Given the current political environment we are facing in our nation, it comes as no surprise that others with their own political agendas will attempt to raise false accusations in order to create news stories.”
The House Ethics Committee has not commented on the matter. Investigations by the panel can take weeks, months or even years, and findings are not always made public.
CNN reported the inquiry comes as the committee has recently encouraged individuals to come forward with allegations of misconduct, amid broader scrutiny on Capitol Hill. Several lawmakers from both parties have resigned in recent weeks following various allegations.