Politics

Edwards sells McDonald's restaurants

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards and his wife, Teresa, greet voters during the Hendersonville Fourth of July parade in 2022. [LIGHTNING FILE PHOTO]

By Lightning Reports, Published: July 13, 2026

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards and his wife, Teresa, announced today the sale of their McDonald's restaurant business, marking the end of a chapter that began nearly five decades ago when Chuck first went to work behind the counter of a McDonald's restaurant at the age of 16.

The new owners are Edwards's long-time friends and fellow McDonald's franchisees Christine and Chris Nevant of Asheville. A news release on the transaction did not disclose the price for the six restaurants the couple owned in Hendersonville, Brevard and Canton.

The decision allows the Edwards family to fully transition from business ownership and devote even greater attention to public service, the second-term Republican said in news release.

"McDonald's changed the course of my life," Edwards said. "It taught me the value of hard work, personal responsibility, teamwork and serving others. Those lessons have shaped every chapter of my life—from running a small business to serving in the North Carolina Senate and now representing the people of Western North Carolina in Congress."

Before purchasing the couple purchased the restaurants, Teresa Edwards worked as an office manager for a local construction company. Together, the couple built and operated their McDonald's businesses for many years, creating jobs and serving thousands of customers throughout the region.

When Chuck Edwards was elected to the North Carolina Senate in 2016, Teresa assumed day-to-day leadership of the business, successfully managing its operations while he fulfilled his legislative responsibilities. Her leadership enabled the business to continue thriving while allowing him to focus on serving the people of North Carolina.

"There is no question that Teresa made this possible," Edwards said. "She carried the responsibility of managing our business for nearly a decade while I served in elected office. Her dedication, leadership, and countless sacrifices gave me the opportunity to serve our communities. I couldn't be more grateful."

The announcement comes as Edwards faces the toughest general election challenge since the three-term state senator defeated Madison Cawthorn in the GOP primary and went on to win the seat in November 2022. He cruised to re-election in November 2024 as he dealt with Hurricane Helene's devastation and helped guide the federal government's role in the recovery. The couple faced problems of their own after Helene in September 2024 when flooding destroyed the interior of the McDonald's on Spartanburg Highway, forcing a complete rebuild.

"Serving the people of Western North Carolina has been the greatest honor of my professional life," the congressman said. "While leaving a business that has meant so much to our family is bittersweet, this transition allows us to dedicate even more time and energy to the work of serving our communities and fighting for the people of our mountain region."

The couple, who live in Flat Rock, expressed gratitude to the employees, customers and communities who have supported their restaurants through the years.

"We have been blessed by incredible employees, loyal customers, and communities that have supported us every step of the way," Teresa said. "We will always be thankful for the friendships we've made and for the opportunity to have been part of so many lives through our restaurants."