Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus McCormick Found Guilty of Ethics Violations

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has found Florida Representative Sheila Cherfilus McCormick guilty of over 20 ethics violations. House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., stated on Friday that the Ethics Committee is nearing the completion of their process, implying that no conclusions would be reached before their return.

Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.), who chairs the House Democratic Conference, remarked to Punchbowl News that he had not reviewed the Ethics Committee’s findings but expressed concern when he learned about the determination of 25 ethics violations attributed to Cherfilus McCormick. Accusations include money laundering, inaccuracies in campaign finance disclosures, and attempts to secure special benefits from federally funded entities.

Potential Expulsion on the Horizon

The House Ethics Investigations Subcommittee revealed that Cherfilus McCormick faces serious consequences, including the possibility of expulsion. In a separate case, she also faces federal criminal charges that could lead to up to 50 years in prison if found guilty. Cherfilus McCormick, who has entered a not guilty plea, is accused of misappropriating millions in disaster relief funds meant for her family’s healthcare business, allegedly using the money for her congressional campaign and luxury items, including a large diamond ring.

The Ethics Committee aims to announce its recommended disciplinary actions in April. This could potentially involve her removal from the House, which would require a two-thirds vote to formalize.

Jeffries has yet to publicly condemn Cherfilus McCormick’s actions, a stance that seems to reflect the cautious silence among the Democratic caucus. However, some members, like moderate Rep. Marie Grusenkamp Perez (D-Wash.), have begun to voice their opinions. On Friday, she became the first Democrat to call for Cherfilus McCormick’s resignation or removal, stating, “You cannot obtain legitimate power by committing a crime,” highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Pressure Mounting for Resignation

As pressure builds, several House Democrats indicated they might support an expulsion resolution if Cherfilus McCormick does not resign voluntarily. A spokesperson for Jeffries did not reply to inquiries regarding this matter.

Despite the threat of expulsion, Cherfilus McCormick has shown no signs of stepping down and is actively campaigning for a fourth term in the upcoming midterm elections. She stated, “I look forward to proving my innocence,” emphasizing her commitment to serve the constituents of Florida’s 20th District.

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has criticized House Democrats for their muted response to Cherfilus McCormick’s alleged unethical behavior. NRCC spokesman Mike Marinella accused them of failing to hold her accountable, asserting that voters will remember the Democrats’ choice to remain silent on the issue.