Calls for Resignation Following Ethics Findings
Representative Marie Grusenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) has expressed that Representative Sheila Cherfiras McCormick (D-Fla.) should resign from Congress. This follows the House Ethics Committee’s adjudication subcommittee confirming that 25 of the 27 ethics charges against her were substantiated—marking the first such finding against a sitting member since 2010.
Grusenkamp Perez was an early supporter of Cherfiras McCormick but has shifted her stance. She remarked on social media, “You cannot gain legitimate power by committing a crime. Since she was found guilty, she should either resign or be removed from office.”
There was also a report indicating that Grusenkamp Perez backed efforts to expel Cherfiras McCormick from the House. Earlier, in November, she had led a bipartisan critique against Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-Ill.) regarding actions that she felt undermined democratic choices for the electorate.
The House Ethics Committee’s findings emerged after a comprehensive investigation lasting over two years, which included reviewing more than 33,000 documents and issuing numerous subpoenas. The subcommittee concluded that there was substantial evidence of misconduct, including failing to adhere to campaign finance laws.
Cherfiras McCormick denies any wrongdoing and asserts her innocence in a federal criminal matter. However, the subcommittee identified several ethics violations, such as inaccuracies in campaign finance disclosures and improper contributions.
Specific allegations noted that Cherfiras McCormick funneled funds from a $5 million overpayment mistakenly issued to her family’s company into her campaign. Investigations revealed additional links to her re-election financing, involving relatives and associates. Prosecutors allege this includes more than $100,000 used to purchase luxury items, such as a diamond ring.
During the recent ethics hearing, Rep. Brad Knott (R-N.C.) rebuffed the defense, emphasizing the inconsistency of the claim that Cherfiras McCormick had no knowledge of the financial dealings related to her campaign. He cited text messages indicating her active involvement in managing campaign funds, painting a picture that contradicts her assertions of ignorance.
Knott pointed out, “You and I both know that sometimes the evidence speaks for itself,” suggesting that Cherfiras McCormick’s understanding of the situation was much clearer than presented, leading to significant ethical concerns.
