Despite his troubles, Cawthorn was seen as the favorite going into Tuesday's primaries in the state's 11th District, aided by Trump's backing and a big fundraising operation.
From personal to political controversy, Cawthorn has seen it all. He has been stopped multiple times by police for driving with a revoked license, and he tried to board a plane with a gun. He tried to swap districts last fall to get an easier reelection, but returned to the 11th District once the lines were redrawn again.
Without evidence, he made accusations about orgies and cocaine use. A nude video was leaked. He has been accused of sexual harassment multiple times and was criticized for his role in January.
These actions have caused opposition from members of his own party. Kevin McCarthy described Cawthorn's mistakes as not becoming a congressman after he alleged cocaine use and attendance at orgies by his fellow Republicans.
After Cawthorn won the Republican primary to fill MarkMeadows' seat, conservatives thought he was a rising star and the future of the party. He became one of the youngest members in the history of the House after a car accident left him partially paralyzed as a teenager.
Cawthorn has managed to stay in the national spotlight while simultaneously losing the support of some of his state's most influential Republicans, including House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger. The former president broke his silence on the eve of the primary, throwing a last-minute lifeline to Cawthorn.
Madison did a great job when he was first elected to Congress, according to Trump.
After Cawthorn's concession, it was Tillis who got the last word. Every single day in Congress, the senator would fight for the district with honor and integrity.
Ally contributed to the article.