House Ethics Committee recommends censuring Rep. Chuck Edwards over conduct toward two female staffers

The bipartisan committee said Edwards repeatedly gave the aides costly gifts—including jewelry, guns, designer purses, trips and one-on-one dinners—commented on their appearance and dress, and sent notes about his affection; both women said his conduct made them uncomfortable. The panel found no explicit proposition or sexual activity but said he violated the spirit of House rules against sexual harassment and unwanted advances. Edwards’ 22-page defense says gifts, compliments and poetry are not sexual misconduct and asks colleagues to reject censure.