The House Ethics Committee will hold a rare public hearing Thursday to examine allegations that Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.) misused Federal Emergency Management Agency funds.

Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of improperly using part of $5 million in FEMA funds to support her political campaign and purchase luxury goods. The specific details of the alleged misuse have not been fully disclosed by the committee.

Public hearings by the House Ethics Committee are uncommon, making this proceeding notable within congressional oversight processes. The committee typically conducts its investigations privately before announcing any findings or disciplinary actions.

The timing of the hearing presents political challenges for Democrats as they seek to position themselves on anti-corruption messaging ahead of upcoming elections. House Democratic leadership has not yet issued public statements regarding the allegations or the scheduled hearing.

Cherfilus-McCormick represents Florida's 20th congressional district and has served in the House since winning a special election in 2022. She has not publicly responded to the specific allegations outlined by the Ethics Committee.

The hearing will determine whether the allegations warrant further investigation or disciplinary action by the full House of Representatives.