Indicted Florida Democrat Falsely Claims Pelosi's Endorsement

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick faces decades in prison for allegedly stealing $5 million in disaster relief funds to finance her previous campaign.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Democratic Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who is facing decades in prison for allegedly stealing $5 million in disaster relief funds to finance her previous run, is falsely claiming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi endorses her reelection bid. However, a source familiar with the endorsement told the Daily Caller News Foundation that Pelosi has not issued public support for Cherfilus-McCormick in years.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about politicians making false claims about endorsements and the potential consequences of misusing disaster relief funds for personal and political gain. It also raises questions about the oversight and accountability of elected officials, especially those facing serious criminal charges.

The details

Federal prosecutors allege Cherfilus-McCormick's special election campaign and 2022 reelection was partially bankrolled by more than $5.7 million in FEMA overpayments the Florida state government gave to her family's company, Trinity Health Care Services. Rather than return the money, the Florida Democrat used a 'substantial portion' to support her congressional run in addition to splurging on 'luxury personal items,' according to the federal indictment.

  • Cherfilus-McCormick won a Democratic special election primary in November 2021 by just five votes.
  • Pelosi released a statement endorsing Cherfilus-McCormick in July 2022.
  • Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted by federal prosecutors in November 2025 on charges of stealing federal COVID-19 disaster funds and funneling some of the money to her campaign.
  • Cherfilus-McCormick pleaded not guilty during an arraignment at a Miami federal court on Feb. 3, 2026.

The players

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

A Democratic Florida congresswoman facing decades in prison for allegedly stealing $5 million in disaster relief funds to finance her previous campaign.

Nancy Pelosi

The 85-year-old House Speaker who continues to hold considerable sway among Democrats despite plans to retire from Congress in January 2027.

Trinity Health Care Services

The Florida Democrat's family company that allegedly received $5.7 million in FEMA overpayments, which Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of using to support her congressional campaigns.

Elijah Manley

A 26-year-old activist challenging Cherfilus-McCormick from the left in the upcoming Democratic primary.

Dale Holness

A former Broward County Mayor who is also running in the Democratic primary against Cherfilus-McCormick.

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What they’re saying

“Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, in her time in Congress, has been masterful at bringing people together, here in D.C. and her District, by working on big problems and staying focused on shared values. It is my honor and privilege to support Sheila – a strong lifelong Democrat, colleague and friend – for re-election as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 20th Congressional District.”

— Nancy Pelosi, House Speaker (Cherfilus-McCormick campaign website)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Cherfilus-McCormick out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of elected officials being truthful about endorsements and the need for strict oversight and accountability when it comes to the use of federal disaster relief funds. It also underscores the challenges facing Cherfilus-McCormick's reelection bid as she faces serious criminal charges and declining support within her own district.