Trump Endorses Jennifer Balkcom for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District

Former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind North Carolina State Representative Jennifer Balkcom, the new Republican nominee for the state’s 11th Congressional District. Balkcom was selected as the nominee after Trump-backed incumbent Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., decided not to seek re-election.

“It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot, Jennifer Balkcom, who is running to represent the wonderful people of North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District!” Trump expressed in a Truth Social post.

Balkcom responded with gratitude in a post on platform X, stating, “THANK YOU, President Trump! I’m incredibly grateful for your support, and I’m proud to stand and fight for the people of Western North Carolina. In Congress, I’ll work with you to continue rebuilding WNC after Helene, deliver real results for our communities, and fight to make life more affordable for hardworking families. I’m ready to get to work,” and included an American flag emoji.

Previously, Trump had endorsed Edwards, who won the March 3 Republican primary in the 11th Congressional District. Nevertheless, Edwards announced on August 5 that he would not pursue re-election.

The decision came after a report from the House Committee on Ethics recommended censure for Edwards. The report alleged that Edwards engaged in “persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct” towards two young female staffers.

“While Representative Edwards denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, his pattern of behavior would lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such,” the report declared. These behaviors included providing lavish gifts, comments on appearance, invitations to intimate dinners and vacations, and notes expressing affection.