Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Democrat accused of stealing FEMA funds, set to face rare ethics "trial"
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- The House Ethics Committee is holding a rare public trial for Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, accused of stealing $5 million in federal pandemic funds and using some to finance her congressional campaign, with potential recommendations for expulsion.
- Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted on 15 federal charges including theft of government funds, money laundering, and illegal campaign contributions, and has pleaded not guilty, denying all allegations.
- The Ethics Committee's January report found substantial evidence of misconduct, including improper campaign finance practices and personal spending of overpaid FEMA funds on luxury items.
- Republicans, led by Rep. Greg Steube, are pushing for Cherfilus-McCormick's expulsion, while House Democrats emphasize her presumption of innocence and await the outcomes of the Ethics hearing and criminal trial before deciding on her future.
- The adjudicatory subcommittee hearing will determine if the allegations are proven by clear and convincing evidence, with proceedings conducted publicly unless otherwise voted.
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