Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Faces Ethics, Fraud Charges

0:00It's March 27. This is U.S. News Today, powered by AI bringing you what matters across the U.S. The House Ethics Committee ruled that Florida Democratic Representative Sheila Cherfelis McCormick committed 25 violations of House rules and standards. This bipartisan panel of four Democrats and four Republicans met for more than seven hours before announcing the findings on Friday. The decision ramps up pressure from Republicans to possibly expel her from Congress. The violation stem from her family's health care business, receiving millions after Florida overpaid about $5 million in disaster relief, funds. Investigators say she funneled that money through relatives and companies to support her 2022 campaign. The committee plans to suggest the punishment in the weeks ahead. Cherfelis McCormick, who's seeking another term in her southeastern Florida district, denies any misconduct. Her legal team slammed the public hearing as unfair, marking the first open session in nearly 15 years.

1:00This could split Democrats as they eye gains in the November elections. Beyond the ethics probe, she faces federal charges for allegedly stealing those $5 million in COVID relief funds. Prosecutors claim she spent some on luxury items like a three-carat yellow diamond ring. Her brother, former Chief of Staff, and accountant also faced charges in the scheme, she has pleaded not guilty. With a trial looming in the coming months, her political future hangs in the balance as both investigations unfold.