ASHEVILLE, N.C. – In a town hall event in Asheville, North Carolina, U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards faced a contentious crowd as he fielded questions about President Donald Trump’s trade policies. Edwards, visibly fatigued, invited attendees to express their displeasure by booing or hissing if they disagreed with his responses. However, as he delved into the topic of tariffs and Trump’s approach to negotiations, the crowd erupted in outrage, setting the tone for a tumultuous evening.
Despite the rowdy atmosphere, Edwards continued to address the audience’s concerns, even as the room erupted in jeers and expletives. The town hall, which drew about 300 people inside the college auditorium and more than a thousand protesters outside, showcased the deep political divide in western North Carolina, a region that went for Trump in the 2024 election.
House Speaker Mike Johnson’s advice to GOP representatives to avoid town halls due to potential disruptions was addressed by Edwards, who expressed his commitment to engaging with constituents, even those who disagreed with him. However, as the interruptions and disruptions intensified, Edwards began to acknowledge the challenges of conducting such forums in a politically polarized environment like Asheville.
The evening took a contentious turn as Edwards discussed Hurricane Helene’s impact on western North Carolina, with attendees demanding immediate answers to their questions. Despite attempts to highlight the Trump administration’s efforts in the region’s recovery, including proposals to dissolve FEMA, the crowd remained vocal and critical, leading to an attendee being escorted out for unruly behavior.
Questions on government agency cuts, healthcare programs, job reductions, and foreign policy decisions drew passionate responses from the audience, highlighting the deep concerns of the community. Throughout the event, Edwards maintained his support for the Trump administration’s policies, emphasizing the need to address constituent feedback for government improvement.
Despite the challenges faced during the town hall, Edwards remained optimistic, appreciating the passion and patriotism displayed by the attendees. In a post-event news conference, he reiterated his belief in the administration’s agenda, reflecting on the significance of listening to the American people’s demands. As protesters continued to voice their dissent outside, Edwards remained resolute in his commitment to representing the interests of his constituents in Washington D.C.