U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) appears for a hearing of the House Ethics Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 26, 2026. REUTERS/Nathan Howard
(Washington, DC) – Florida Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has resigned from office as she faces mounting legal and ethical challenges, stepping down just before a House Ethics Committee hearing that could have led to her expulsion.
The third-term Democrat is accused of improperly taking millions of dollars in pandemic-related relief funds, with federal prosecutors pursuing a criminal case tied to alleged misuse of FEMA money. She has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty, with a trial expected next year.
In a statement announcing her resignation, Cherfilus-McCormick sharply criticized the congressional investigation, calling it unfair and politically motivated. “I will not stand by and pretend that this has been anything other than a witch hunt,” she said, adding that she could not allow her rights to be “trampled” while defending herself.
Her departure came moments before lawmakers were set to weigh possible disciplinary action, including expulsion—the most severe penalty available to Congress. Ethics investigators had reportedly found substantial evidence tied to multiple allegations of misconduct.
Once her resignation took effect, the committee halted its proceedings, as it no longer had jurisdiction over a former member. Lawmakers said the decision effectively ends the House’s role in the matter, though the criminal case will continue in federal court.
The situation marks a dramatic fall for Cherfilus-McCormick and adds to the small but notable list of lawmakers forced out of office amid serious allegations.
