House Ethics Panel to Recommend Discipline for Rep. Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick; Expulsion Vote Looms

The House Ethics Committee will conclude its investigation on Tuesday afternoon into allegations that Florida Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick diverted roughly $5 million in FEMA funds. The panel is expected to recommend a formal sanction or punishment to the full House.

Expulsion Motion Expected

Shortly after the committee releases its recommendation, Rep. Greg Steube (R‑Fla.) is expected to offer a motion to expel Cherfilus‑McCormick. Leadership and lawmakers on the floor appear likely to secure the two‑thirds majority required to remove a member if the House votes to expel.

Political Fallout

As the probe advanced, Cherfilus‑McCormick’s political support in the House largely dissipated. Federal Election Commission filings show she reported raising just $10,705.20 in the most recent quarter.

Committee Findings

A memo filed by the committee’s lawyers says Cherfilus‑McCormick’s "conduct also sets her apart from any prior Member due to the sheer volume of funds involved, totaling in the millions."

Other Ethics Matters

Her potential expulsion may not be the only one this week. Some Democrats have signaled they may call for a vote on Rep. Cory Mills (R‑Fla.), who is facing a separate ethics inquiry. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters he wants to await the ethics panel’s report before taking any action on Mills.

Cherfilus‑McCormick’s office did not respond to a request for comment.