Chuck Edwards is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for North Carolina’s 11th congressional district since 2023. A member of the Republican Party, he previously represented the 48th district in the North Carolina Senate from 2016 to 2023.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 13, 1960, in Waynesville, North Carolina, Edwards graduated from West Henderson High School in 1978. He pursued studies in business, accounting, and marketing at Blue Ridge Community College.
Professional Career
Before entering politics, Edwards acquired seven McDonald’s franchises in Hendersonville, Canton, and Brevard, and served as vice president of Henderson County Partners for Economic Progress. In 2013, he became president of the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce.
Political Career
- North Carolina Senate: Edwards was appointed in August 2016 to fill the vacancy left by Tom Apodaca’s resignation. He was subsequently elected in 2016, 2018, and 2020, serving until 2023. During his tenure, he chaired the Agriculture and Commerce committees.
- U.S. House of Representatives: In November 2021, Edwards announced his candidacy for North Carolina’s 11th congressional district, challenging incumbent Madison Cawthorn. He won the Republican primary in May 2022 with 33.4% of the vote and secured the seat in the November 2022 general election. He was reelected in November 2024.
Recent Events
On March 13, 2025, Edwards hosted a town hall in Asheville, North Carolina, where he faced intense scrutiny from attendees and protesters. The event, initially intended to discuss regional recovery from Hurricane Helene, became a platform for constituents to voice concerns over various policies, including trade, government cuts, and immigration. Edwards maintained his support for the Trump administration during the event.
Personal Life
Edwards and his wife, Teresa, have two children; their son passed away in 2018 at age 36 following untreated depression.