Ethics Violations and Potential Expulsion: The Case of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida has been found guilty of multiple ethics violations by the House Ethics Committee. The violations include breaking campaign finance laws and receiving millions of dollars from her family's health care business after an overpayment by Florida in disaster relief funds. Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of using this money to fund her 2022 congressional campaign through various businesses and family members. The Ethics Committee will recommend a punishment in the coming weeks, which could lead to a potential vote on her expulsion from Congress.
Cherfilus-McCormick, who is seeking a fourth term representing a district in southeastern Florida, has denied any wrongdoing. She also faces federal charges for allegedly misappropriating the $5 million in COVID-19 relief funds for personal purchases. Her attorney has indicated that the trial is expected to begin in the coming months. During the ethics hearing, Cherfilus-McCormick invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and did not testify.
The Ethics Committee's report outlined 27 violations of House ethics standards and rules, with Cherfilus-McCormick being found guilty of all but two of the proposed violations. The committee's decision could lead to a vote on her expulsion from Congress, which would require a two-thirds majority in the House. Some Democratic leaders have refrained from condemning Cherfilus-McCormick, while others have called for her resignation or removal following the guilty verdict.
If the committee recommends expulsion, Florida Republican Rep. Greg Steube has stated that he will move to expel Cherfilus-McCormick from the House. The last member to be expelled from Congress was Republican Rep. George Santos of New York in 2023. The outcome of Cherfilus-McCormick's case could have significant implications for the Democratic caucus as they navigate the upcoming midterm elections.