Story perspectives

Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Indicted for Misuse of Pandemic Funds

3/29/2026

Center

Cherfilus-McCormick Indicted

The House Ethics Committee denied Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick's request to delay proceedings amid allegations she misused $5 million in federal pandemic funds and she is indicted on charges including theft and money laundering.
Investigators found her campaign received funds from her family-owned healthcare company, with claims of illegal contributions and luxury expenditures.
The Department of Homeland Security cleared seven staffers involved in a polygraph incident, signaling accountability within the agency.

Left

Noem's Contract Controversy

A $915 million DHS contract was awarded to Salus Worldwide Solutions, owned by a supporter of Kristi Noem.
Democrats allege the award signals corruption under U.S. President Donald Trump.
The DHS inspector general has opened an investigation into contract handling and Noem's management.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin pledged cooperation with the investigation.
Lawmakers in Congress seek accountability for potential misconduct and misuse of taxpayer funds.

History

Historical Context

In 2021, the House Ethics Committee investigated Rep. Marie Newman for allegedly misusing federal pandemic funds, with her campaign reportedly receiving $5 million from her family-owned healthcare company. This scrutiny echoes past corruption cases, such as the 2007 Duke Cunningham scandal, underscoring the ongoing need for accountability in government and the protection of taxpayer funds.

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Cherfilus-McCormick Indicted

The House Ethics Committee denied Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick's request to delay proceedings amid allegations she misused $5 million in federal pandemic funds and she is indicted on charges including theft and money laundering.
Investigators found her campaign received funds from her family-owned healthcare company, with claims of illegal contributions and luxury expenditures.
The Department of Homeland Security cleared seven staffers involved in a polygraph incident, signaling accountability within the agency.

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