Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick: Biography, Career & Federal Ethics Hearing
Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick: U.S. Representative and Federal Ethics Hearing
Sheila Cherfilus‑McCormick (born January 25, 1979) is an American politician and attorney serving as the U.S. Representative for Florida’s 20th Congressional District. She was first elected in a special election in 2022 and re-elected in 2024.
Early Life & Education
Cherfilus‑McCormick was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Haitian parents and raised in Queens before moving to Hollywood, Florida. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Howard University and a Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University School of Law. Before Congress, she worked in healthcare management and served as CEO of a family-owned home health care company.
Political Career
After two unsuccessful congressional campaigns in 2018 and 2020, Cherfilus‑McCormick won the 2022 special election to succeed the late Alcee Hastings. She serves on the House Foreign Affairs and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.
Federal Ethics Hearing
In 2025, Cherfilus‑McCormick was indicted on federal charges alleging misuse of $5 million in federal disaster funds and campaign finance violations. She has pleaded not guilty. The House Ethics Committee conducted a public hearing in 2026, reviewing potential violations of House rules.
Additional Videos
Current Outlook
She remains in office while facing both federal charges and congressional review. Her case draws national attention due to its rarity and potential implications for congressional ethics enforcement.
Additional Information
- Democratic Party member
- First Haitian-American Democrat elected from Florida
- Serves in the Congressional Black Caucus