ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards and his wife, Teresa, have sold all six of their McDonald’s restaurants in Western North Carolina, saying the move will allow them to focus more on public service as Edwards seeks another term in Congress.
Edwards, a Republican representing North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, announced the sale Monday. In a statement, he said the decision would allow the couple to “devote even greater attention to public service.”
Edwards is seeking re-election in November and faces Democratic challenger Jamie Ager in what is expected to be a closely watched race.
The restaurants were sold to Christine and Chris Nevant, whom Edwards’ congressional office described as longtime family friends.
Before entering politics, Edwards built a career with McDonald’s. He began working behind the counter at age 16, later joined the company’s management team and eventually became a franchise owner. He and Teresa Edwards went on to own six McDonald’s restaurants across Western North Carolina.
Edwards has represented North Carolina’s 11th District in Congress since 2023.
The announcement comes as Edwards is the subject of a House ethics investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior toward female members of his congressional staff. Edwards has denied any wrongdoing.