Former GOP Rep. Cawthorn pleads guilty to bringing gun loaded to airport

Former North Carolina Republican Rep. Madison Cawthorn pleaded guilty on Friday to a misdemeanor charge stemming from a 2022 incident during which he brought a loaded gun through airport security.

Cawthorn received a $250 fine after pleading guilty to having immediate access to a dangerous weapon on city property, The Hill reported. The incident occurred at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Authorities will return the 9mm pistol from the incident to the former lawmaker.

"Law enforcement noted his cooperative attitude at every step," attorney Missy Owens said. "He chose to resolve this case in a manner that would ensure his uninterrupted right to possess a firearm. He remains staunchly committed to responsible gun ownership."

"Mr. Cawthorn accepted responsibility for this mistake," she added.

The former lawmaker became a rising star within the Republican Party after winning a primary contest for the seat in 2020 and becoming the youngest GOP House member when he won the general election.

His official tenure, however, was mired in scandal. The lawmaker came under repeated scrutiny for his lifestyle and public statements while in office.

In April of 2022, photos emerged of the lawmaker wearing lingerie and drinking alcohol while surrounded by women. He also made statements indicated that rampant drug use and illicit sexual interactions were commonplace in the nation's capital.

He ultimately lost the Republican primary in 2022 and left office at the end of his single term.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.