Two weeks before absentee ballots are mailed to North Carolina voters, the Republican executive committees for the 11th Congressional District and state House District 117 have finalized their candidate line‑ups. State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, a two‑term Republican from Henderson County, was selected on Monday to replace U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards, who withdrew after an ethics investigation.
Local Roots and Recent Endorsements
Balkcom, a lifelong resident of the western mountains, emphasized her commitment to families, farmers and small businesses. “When the community needs you, you step up,” she told the Hendersonville Lightning. She added that western North Carolina is still rebuilding after Hurricane Helene and needs a voice that understands the region’s values.
Former Henderson County GOP chair Chelsea Walsh, who lost to Balkcom in the 2022 primary, endorsed her early in the week. Walsh, who previously ran for Hendersonville City Council in 2021, announced her own candidacy three nights later, saying the shortened campaign timeline makes name recognition crucial.
Other Potential Contenders
State Sens. Kevin Corbin of Macon County and Tim Moffitt of Henderson County were initially mentioned as possible GOP candidates. Both withdrew before the Aug. 10 meeting that confirmed Balkcom’s nomination.
Background on the Seat
The 11th District has been a Republican stronghold for seven election cycles, but the recent ethics scandal involving Rep. Edwards has opened the door for a Democratic challenge. Jamie Ager, the Democratic nominee, entered the race with a sizable fundraising advantage.
The seat is pivotal for control of the U.S. House. After the 2024 elections, Republicans held a narrow 218‑212 majority with several vacancies. A flip in the 11th could affect the balance of power.
Recent History of the District
Since Democrat Heath Shuler’s 2010 victory, the district has been represented by Republicans Mark Meadows, who later served as White House chief of staff, and Madison Cawthorn, who left after one term amid multiple controversies. The current vacancy adds another chapter to the district’s political narrative.
Voters in the 11th will receive absentee ballots on Friday, August 28. The race will likely intensify as both parties mobilize their bases in the coming weeks.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
