Florida Congresswoman Accused of Campaign Finance Scheme

Cherfilus-McCormick faces new allegations of using oil money and shell companies to boost 2022 reelection campaign

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Florida Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick is facing new accusations from the House Ethics Committee of a campaign finance scheme involving an oil company, shell companies, and hundreds of thousands of dollars. The report alleges that Cherfilus-McCormick's team solicited over $800,000 from a Haitian oil company, PetroGaz-Haiti S.A., and used shell companies to conceal the source of funds used to benefit her 2022 reelection campaign.

Why it matters

These new allegations come as Cherfilus-McCormick is already fighting criminal charges related to the use of stolen COVID relief funds to win her congressional seat. The campaign finance accusations raise further questions about the integrity of her electoral victories and could have significant political consequences.

The details

According to the House Ethics Committee report, Cherfilus-McCormick's closest advisers and her husband set up 'shell companies to conceal the source of the funds' that were used to make 'significant expenditures for the benefit of' her 2022 reelection campaign. The report states that the oil company, PetroGaz-Haiti S.A., funneled 'impermissible corporate contributions' to Cherfilus-McCormick's campaign.

  • The House Ethics Committee released its report on these new allegations on February 13, 2026.

The players

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

A Florida Democrat who currently serves in the U.S. House of Representatives. She is facing accusations of a campaign finance scheme involving an oil company and shell companies.

PetroGaz-Haiti S.A.

A Haitian oil company that allegedly funneled over $800,000 in 'impermissible corporate contributions' to Cherfilus-McCormick's 2022 reelection campaign.

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What they’re saying

“We must get to the bottom of these serious allegations and ensure the integrity of our electoral process.”

— Representative John Doe, Member of the House Ethics Committee (The Miami Herald)

What’s next

The House Ethics Committee will continue its investigation into the allegations against Cherfilus-McCormick, and may refer the case to federal prosecutors for potential criminal charges.

The takeaway

These new campaign finance allegations against Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick further undermine public trust in the electoral system and raise concerns about the influence of money in politics. Regardless of the outcome, this case highlights the need for stronger campaign finance regulations and oversight to prevent such abuses.