Last month, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) was indicted on charges alleging she stole millions in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds, and her arraignment has been postponed until January 20, 2026.
Despite the hefty charges alleging that she used the funds for personal expenses and campaign donations, the Florida Democrat maintains her innocence, and her legal team suggests that the claims are a political hit job that could stem from members of the Florida Democratic Party.
In a press conference outside a Miami federal courthouse, Defense Attorney David Markus explained that "this case involves mistakes that typically aren't even misdemeanors, forget about federal felonies, and we're starting to uncover evidence that folks within the Florida Democratic Party are the ones targeting the congresswoman, and that's very troubling to us." While he did not provide "evidence" for the claim, he added that the defense team is investigating the issue and will be "exposing those folks targeting the good congresswoman."
Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick commented on the charges, stressing her innocence.
"In no way did I steal any kind of funds," she affirmed. "I am committed to the people of Florida, my district. We're gonna continue fighting and make sure everyone gets the representation they need."
Since her indictment, Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) moved to expel her from the House, saying that "defrauding the federal government and disaster victims of $5 million s an automatic disqualifier from serving in elected office."
Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick faces 15 felony charges.
Her brother and two associates have been arraigned on charges connected to the case.
