Politics

Edwards handily wins second term

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 6, 2024

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards, who pivoted from his re-election campaigning to fulltime work on Hurricane Helene recovery after the storm's devastation on Sept. 27, easily won a second term in the Congress on Tuesday, defeating Democrat Caleb Rudow by 57 to 43 percent of the vote with most precincts reporting.

In the days and weeks since Helene ripped through communities in the mountains, Edwards had communicated often with constituents on recovery efforts.

"Hurricane Helene has interrupted many things in our communities over the past few weeks: water service, internet access and the ability to work from home, and the school calendar, to name a few; but one thing that is continuing without delay is the 2024 general election," he said Monday in one appeal that did focus on politics.

"Tomorrow is Election Day and voting is the fundamental basis that makes our country a democracy. Casting your vote gives you an opportunity to make sure your views and concerns are reflected in the representation that you elect. It is often referred to as your civic duty, but in the wake of Hurricane Helene, it is much more than that.

"Your vote will directly impact the support our mountains receive in the coming months and years as we recover from Helene’s destruction. I encourage each and every one of you to make sure your voice is heard in this year’s election."