House lawmakers are moving closer to expelling a sitting Democrat from Congress due to serious ethical violations.
A bipartisan ethics panel has taken action against Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who allegedly diverted millions in disaster relief funds into her own campaign. The panel found her guilty on 25 counts.
After an extensive public ethics hearing—the first since 2010—the investigative subcommittee concluded that nearly all violations cited earlier were substantiated.
The panel deliberated for hours before announcing their findings. According to committee leaders, Counts 1-15 and 17-26 of the Statement of Alleged Violations (SAV) were confirmed.
The allegations paint a concerning picture. Investigators claim Cherfilus-McCormick misused disaster funds, submitted false financial disclosures, and solicited “special favors” connected to earmark requests. She is also facing a distinct federal indictment.
The ethics panel plans to reconvene after Easter to discuss sanctions, including expulsion.
Rep. Greg Steube has vowed to advocate for an expulsion vote irrespective of the committee’s final resolution, requiring bipartisan support in the House.
Party leaders have largely supported Cherfilus-McCormick, but some signs of dissent are emerging. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier emphasized the severe nature of the allegations during the hearing, which could threaten public trust in the House.
Since her election in 2021, Cherfilus-McCormick has been accused of directing over $5 million from disaster relief to benefit her family’s healthcare business. Prosecutors allege this money was used to finance her campaign and personal luxuries.
She has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges, which could lead to a lengthy prison sentence if she is convicted.
The ethical investigation, which began over two years prior to the indictment, has seen Cherfilus-McCormick change legal representation multiple times while largely avoiding cooperation.
During the hearing, her current lawyer requested a delay, citing his recent appointment. The committee rejected this plea.
Committee chair Rep. Michael Guest expressed frustration with the lack of transparency from Cherfilus-McCormick’s side, highlighting the lengthy battle for documents.
Contentions over the legitimacy of the financial arrangements were dismissed by lawmakers, indicating a lack of faith in her defense.
With a federal trial looming this summer, Cherfilus-McCormick’s political future hangs in the balance.
