Rep. Chuck Edwards investigated after gifting pink and blue handguns to female staffers

U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards (R‑NC) is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. According to reports, Edwards gave two female staff members a blue handgun engraved with one staffer’s name and a pink handgun to the other, both of which the recipients later disposed of because they felt uneasy keeping the weapons.

The investigation follows earlier accusations that Edwards propositioned a staffer for a dinner date, read her a poem after she declined, and gave additional gifts such as a custom puzzle featuring actor Adam Sandler and an invitation to a comedy show. Edwards represents North Carolina’s westernmost district, which includes Asheville, and first won his seat after defeating former Rep. Madison Cawthorn in a primary.

The ethics probe examines whether the gifts and conduct violated House rules on harassment and retaliation, raising questions about workplace culture on Capitol Hill.