On March 13, 2025, U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards held a town hall meeting at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College’s Ferguson Auditorium in Asheville, North Carolina. The event drew significant attention, with approximately 300 attendees filling the auditorium and over a thousand protesters gathering outside.
Event Dynamics:
The town hall was marked by heightened emotions and frequent interruptions. Attendees voiced strong opinions on various topics, including:
• Trade Policies: Questions arose concerning President Donald Trump’s trade strategies, particularly the use of tariffs. When Edwards attempted to address these concerns, he faced boos and interruptions from the audience.
• Federal Agency Cuts: Concerns were expressed about reductions in funding for agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs. These cuts have implications for disaster recovery and veteran services.
• Social Programs: Attendees questioned potential impacts on Medicare and Medicaid, emphasizing the importance of these programs to the community.
• International Support: The U.S.‘s role in supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts was a topic of interest, reflecting constituents’ concerns about foreign policy and international aid.
Representative Edwards’ Response:
Throughout the event, Edwards maintained his support for the Trump administration’s policies. He acknowledged the challenges of the evening, noting the difficulty elected officials face during such engagements. Despite the contentious atmosphere, Edwards expressed appreciation for the passion displayed by attendees and reiterated his commitment to representing the interests of Western North Carolina.
Public Sentiment:
The event highlighted a palpable dissatisfaction among constituents regarding current federal policies. The large turnout, both inside and outside the venue, underscores the community’s desire for engagement and dialogue on pressing issues. The strong reactions suggest a call for more transparent communication between elected officials and their constituents.
The Asheville town hall serves as a microcosm of the broader national discourse, reflecting deep-seated concerns and the demand for accountability from public servants. As policy decisions continue to impact daily lives, such forums remain crucial for fostering understanding and addressing the needs of the community.
For a visual recap of the event, you can watch the following coverage:
