NC GOP Rep. Edwards Accused of Striking Man at Rotary Event

Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) is at the center of controversy following an incident at a Rotary District 7670 conference in Asheville, where he reportedly struck a constituent with a clipboard. Edwards was invited to speak about Hurricane Helene relief but instead launched into a pro-Trump speech, criticizing federal agencies like the State Department and the World Health Organization, which frustrated attendees. After the speech, tensions escalated when a Rotary Club member called Edwards' remarks "a load of BS," leading to the congressman hitting the man with his clipboard during an exchange as Edwards left the stage. Edwards claimed he was provoked by an intoxicated and belligerent man, but witnesses and event organizers dispute this, describing Edwards as the aggressor. Police confirmed a disturbance occurred, though no arrests or injuries were reported, and a police report was not yet available. The incident has sparked backlash within the community and raised questions about Edwards’ conduct at what was intended to be a nonpartisan event.