Chuck Edwards: From the Golden Arches to the Halls of Congress
In this episode of the Kudzu Project, Nick sits down with Congressman Chuck Edwards, a Western North Carolina native whose story begins right here in Henderson County. Born in Waynesville and raised in Hendersonville, Edwards got his start in the labor force as a teen behind the counter at McDonald’s. Years later, he would go on to purchase the very same restaurant where he began working, eventually owning several McDonald’s across Western North Carolina.
Today, Edwards represents North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District in Washington, D.C., after previously serving three terms in the North Carolina Senate. His home base and congressional office remain in Hendersonville, where his ties to the community run deep.
In this conversation, Edwards reflects on his upbringing in the mountains, the lessons learned from business and public service, and the region that shaped his life and career. With the Republican primary victory now behind him, Edwards is headed toward the November election, where he will face Democrat Jamie Ager.
Recorded in Hendersonville, NC — where stories grow wild.
