Edwards is a staunch conservative; he noted that, in his tenure in the state senate, he has helped lower taxes dramatically compared with where they stood before Republicans took over the legislature in 2011, outlaw sanctuary cities, balance state budgets, and pass voting-integrity laws. He cites his work on the state’s budget as a reason for supporting a balanced-budget amendment in Washington. And without naming the former president, he cites Trump as a model for his campaign: “In 2016, voters chose a successful businessman with conservative values who loves this country and had accomplished things in life.” Asked what Republicans could focus on if they retake the House, he immediately cited the need to close the southern border and stop the flow of illegal drugs, gangs, human trafficking, and, potentially, terrorists. When he announced his run for Congress in November, he also pointed out that “I helped fight for Christian values, and I helped fight for the unborn” and “reinforced our support for law enforcement and our military.” In the state senate, he has earned the trust of leadership, co-chairing a pair of joint committees.

Edwards is, in short, everything Cawthorn isn’t: a serious legislator who actually does his job and reflects the values of his district. We will soon find out whether that is worth more to the voters of the 11th district than Cawthorn’s taste for headlines.