Cherfilus-McCormick launches 2026 bid as $5M FEMA embezzlement charges spark Florida primary battle
MIRAMAR, FL: Former Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has confirmed she will run again for Florida’s 20th Congressional District, just four days after resigning from the 119th Congress ahead of a House Ethics Committee vote that was expected to recommend her expulsion.
The announcement reopens a high-profile race in South Florida as legal proceedings against the former lawmaker continue.
Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, are facing a federal indictment tied to allegations involving $5 million in FEMA disaster relief funds.
Prosecutors allege the funds, originally linked to COVID-19 vaccination efforts, were improperly diverted through a family-run healthcare business and later used for personal and political purposes.
She has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
FEMA embezzlement funds luxury spending
According to the Department of Justice, the case centers on a $5 million overpayment issued through the Florida Division of Emergency Management.
Investigators allege that instead of returning the funds, the money was routed through multiple accounts to conceal its origin.
Federal filings state that portions of the funds were used for personal expenses, including a 3.14-carat yellow diamond ring, designer clothing, and high-end hotel stays.
Prosecutors also allege that approximately $1 million was directed into her 2022 congressional campaign through what they describe as “straw donations.”
The indictment outlines multiple financial transactions that authorities say were designed to obscure the movement of federal funds.
Party leaders denounce ‘corrupt’ campaign
Cherfilus-McCormick’s re-election bid has drawn strong reactions within the Florida Democratic Party.
Party Chair Nikki Fried issued a statement saying “corruption has no place in Congress,” distancing the organization from the former representative’s campaign.
The indictment includes 15 counts, including allegations of money laundering and filing false tax returns.
Despite the charges, Cherfilus-McCormick has described the case as politically motivated and has maintained her innocence.
Her resignation on April 21 came shortly before the House Ethics Committee was expected to act, allowing her to avoid a formal expulsion vote on the House floor.
Primary war erupts in District 20
The race for Florida’s 20th Congressional District is now expected to draw increased attention ahead of the August primary.
Cherfilus-McCormick enters a field that includes multiple Democratic challengers, among them Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell and Elijah Manley.
If convicted, Cherfilus-McCormick could face up to 53 years in federal prison, though her campaign has indicated she intends to continue her run.
