News

Charles Taylor endorses Edwards in congressional primary

By Lightning Reports, Published: February 16, 2026

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards announced Monday that  Charles Taylor, who represented the 11th Congressional District for 16 years, has endorsed him in the Republican primary election. 

"Chuck Edwards has been a workhorse for the people of western North Carolina," Taylor said. "From his service in the North Carolina Senate to his current service as our member of Congress, he has proven to be a steadfast conservative, putting service to the U.S. over the politics of public office. I’m proud to call Chuck Edwards my friend, but more importantly, I’m honored to call him my congressman. I strongly encourage all my fellow conservatives to join me in voting for Chuck Edwards. We need his values, experience and tenure to keep working for us."

Elected to the U.S. House in 1990, Taylor served for eight terms until he was defeated by Democrat Heath Shuler in 2006. Like Edwards, he was known for his service on the powerful House Appropriations Committee. Edwards is the only North Carolina Republican to serve on the House Appropriations Committee since that time. Taylor continues to live in Transylvania County with his wife, Betty, where they remain active in the Republican Party.

"After giving a speech during my first congressional campaign, a man commented that my style of politics and dedication to the people of the mountains reminded him of Charles Taylor," Edwards said. "I considered those words the ultimate compliment. Today I'm profoundly humbled and deeply honored that Rep. Taylor publicly recognizes my service to the people of the mountains, and grateful to have received such a rare endorsement to place beside that one from President Trump."

Adam R. Smith of Fairview is challenging in Edwards in the March 3 primary.