Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Resigns Ahead Of Ethics Sanction

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigned from Congress Tuesday, stepping down just minutes before she was scheduled to face sanctions from the House Ethics Committee.

The Florida Democrat announced her decision in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, saying it was in the best interest of her constituents and the institution to step aside.

Her resignation came as a House Ethics investigative subcommittee concluded she had violated more than two dozen rules and laws tied to her conduct, including allegations involving millions of dollars in federal funds.

The committee had been weighing disciplinary action that could have included censure or even expulsion. A formal appearance before the panel had been scheduled for later that day.

According to findings from the ethics probe, millions in federal funding—originally tied to pandemic-related programs—were routed through a consulting firm connected to Cherfilus-McCormick and later made their way into her campaign through loans and donations.

Cherfilus-McCormick denied wrongdoing and accused the House Ethics Committee of conducting an unfair process, arguing she was not given sufficient time to prepare her defense. She also framed the investigation as politically motivated.

Her legal challenges extend beyond Congress. Federal prosecutors have brought multiple charges against her, alleging misuse of taxpayer funds, with a trial expected in 2027. If convicted on all counts, she could face significant prison time.

The resignation further tightens the balance of power in the House, where Republicans now hold a narrow majority.

Cherfilus-McCormick, who first entered Congress in 2022 after winning a special election, said she would continue fighting the allegations outside of office while remaining committed to serving her community in other ways.