Incumbent Representative Chuck Edwards has won the Republican primary in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, defeating challenger Adam Smith. Edwards will now represent the GOP in the general election this November.

Edwards emphasized his record of constituent services and disaster recovery work across the district. “We’re the first in constituent services; we take in casework as no other office does,” he said. He highlighted his mobile congressional office, which travels to provide services directly to residents in all 16 counties, and noted his ongoing involvement in recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.

Smith, meanwhile, focused on the region’s tradition of self-reliance and rugged individualism, citing private rescue and recovery efforts after the hurricane. He noted that local residents used tractors, backhoes, chainsaws, and privately operated helicopters to aid neighbors in the mountains. “Self-reliance, rugged individualism, are things the country was built on. The people of Appalachia represent that directly, and I think they should have someone who represents them that fits that same mold,” Smith said.

Both candidates stressed their commitment to western North Carolina, but Edwards’ experience, track record, and the endorsement of President Donald Trump helped secure his victory in the primary. He will now face the Democratic nominee in the general election.