The House Ethics Committee recommends that Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina be censured after concluding there is “substantial reason to believe” he violated House rules. Multiple outlets report the committee’s findings stem from an investigation into Edwards’s conduct toward two young female staffers. The committee characterizes his behavior as “inappropriate” and “unprofessional,” and says it contributed to a hostile work environment. Sources describe Edwards as showering the staffers with gifts and affection and making unwanted romantic advances. The committee also concludes Edwards treated the two aides differently from other staffers in ways that made them uncomfortable and harmed workplace relations. Reporting indicates the bipartisan panel began its work earlier this year after receiving complaints about Edwards’s conduct. While the committee’s report calls for formal censure, the question of whether the full House ultimately imposes the penalty remains with the chamber. The committee’s decision reflects a determination that Edwards violated the rules and, in some accounts, the “spirit” of the House’s sexual harassment and unwanted conduct standards.