Calls for the resignation of U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick are growing louder on Capitol Hill, as members of both parties respond to a congressional ethics investigation that found substantial violations of House rules.
U.S. Representative Jim Himes, a Connecticut Democrat, publicly urged his colleague to step down during an appearance on CBS’ Face the Nation on Sunday. “If she doesn’t resign, there will be a vote in the House,” Himes said, signaling that formal action could follow if Cherfilus-McCormick remains in office. He added that he hopes she would “avoid that outcome” by choosing to resign voluntarily.
The pressure comes after a House Ethics subcommittee concluded that 25 alleged violations against Cherfilus-McCormick were proven “by clear and convincing evidence.” Representative Michael Guest, a Mississippi Republican who chairs the House Ethics Committee, confirmed the findings in a statement released Friday. The full committee is expected to determine recommended sanctions after lawmakers return from their April recess.
Compounding the situation, Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted by a federal grand jury in November on charges related to the alleged misuse of COVID-19 relief funds. According to the Justice Department, funds tied to a vaccination staffing contract supported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency were improperly redirected to support her 2021 congressional campaign. Cherfilus-McCormick has denied any wrongdoing, and her office did not respond to requests for comment.
The controversy has drawn bipartisan concern. While Republicans have broadly called for her resignation, some Democrats, including Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, have also joined those demands. Others within the party, however, have been more cautious, suggesting that due process should continue before definitive conclusions are reached.
Himes emphasized the importance of accountability across party lines, pointing to the recent case of former Representative George Santos, a New York Republican who was expelled from Congress amid fraud and identity theft charges. “It is very important that both parties be consistent in punishing ethical lapses,” Himes said.
As scrutiny intensifies, the House Ethics Committee’s next steps could prove decisive in determining Cherfilus-McCormick’s political future.
