A House Ethics Committee investigation has concluded that Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida committed numerous violations of House rules and ethics standards, a finding that could bolster Republican efforts to expel her from Congress.
Following an extensive seven-hour session on Thursday night, an ethics panel comprising four Democrats and four Republicans determined that Cherfilus-McCormick was responsible for 25 ethics breaches.
The committee indicated it would issue a recommendation for punishment in the coming weeks.
The allegations primarily revolve around the congresswoman’s receipt of millions of dollars from her family’s health care business.
This influx of funds reportedly occurred after the state of Florida made an overpayment of approximately $5 million in disaster relief.
Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of subsequently channeling this money to finance her 2022 congressional campaign through a network of associated businesses and family members.
The congresswoman, who is currently seeking a fourth term representing a district in southeastern Florida, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
Her attorney sharply criticized Thursday’s public hearing, which marked the first open proceeding of its kind in nearly 15 years.
Nevertheless, the Ethics Committee’s ruling could precipitate a vote on her expulsion, potentially creating a rift within the Democratic Caucus as it aims to regain power in the November elections.
Separately, Cherfilus-McCormick faces federal charges for allegedly misappropriating the $5 million in COVID-19 disaster relief funds, reportedly using some of it for personal purchases, including a 3-carat yellow diamond ring.
Her brother, former chief of staff, and accountant have also been implicated in the alleged scheme.
She has pleaded not guilty to these charges, with her attorney stating on Thursday that the trial is anticipated to commence in the coming months.
