The North Carolina Republican Party’s executive committee selected state Rep. Jennifer Balkcom on Monday to replace Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) on the November ballot for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District.
Balkcom, who represents North Carolina’s District 117 in the state House, will now run against Democratic nominee Jamie Ager, who secured his party’s nomination in March. Edwards announced his withdrawal from the race last week following sexual misconduct allegations that led to a House Ethics Committee investigation.
Balkcom’s selection came after two other potential replacements—state Sen. Tim Moffitt and Army veteran Adam Smith—withdrew from consideration over the weekend. The committee’s decision was announced in a post on X, where the party congratulated Balkcom and noted her prior service in the state legislature.
In a statement released Sunday, Balkcom said she would prioritize earning votes in the final stretch of the campaign. “Our region is incredibly strong and resilient, and I plan to be the fighter everyone who calls Western North Carolina home deserves,” she wrote. Balkcom had initially supported Moffitt’s candidacy but entered the race after he opted out.
Edwards, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, announced his withdrawal on X, stating he would serve out the remainder of his term but not seek re-election. The House Ethics Committee had recommended his censure after finding “substantial reason to believe” he violated House rules related to sexual harassment and hostile workplaces. Edwards has denied any wrongdoing.
Under North Carolina law, Balkcom must now withdraw from her state House race, prompting the GOP to find a replacement for her seat. The party’s executive director, Zachary Almond, praised Balkcom’s selection, calling her “the right person at the right time” in a post on X.
North Carolina House Speaker Destin Hall, a Republican, also endorsed Balkcom, describing her as “a principled conservative” and “a leader who gets things done.” Balkcom has framed the race as critical to preserving Republican control of the seat and advancing policies aligned with President Trump’s administration.
The general election is scheduled for November 5, with Balkcom facing an abbreviated campaign timeline of 85 days to unify party support and appeal to voters in Western North Carolina.