Florida Democratic leader Nancy Metayer Bowen, who was reportedly preparing to launch a campaign for Congress, was found dead at her Coral Springs home, according to multiple reports. Authorities say her husband, Stephen Bowen, has been taken into custody as investigators examine the case as a suspected domestic violence incident.
Police conducted a welfare check at the residence Wednesday morning after concerns were raised about Bowen’s well-being. Officers discovered her deceased inside the home. Investigators have stated that no additional suspects are being sought.
Bowen served as Coral Springs’ vice mayor and city commissioner after first being elected in 2020 and winning re-election in 2024. She also served as vice chair of the Florida Democratic Party. According to reports, she had planned to announce a congressional campaign on Thursday for Florida’s 20th Congressional District.
The seat is currently held by Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who has been the subject of federal criminal charges alleging the misuse of millions of dollars in FEMA disaster relief funds connected to a COVID-19 staffing contract. Prosecutors allege that funds were funneled through multiple accounts before being used to support her congressional campaign and other expenses. Cherfilus-McCormick has denied wrongdoing, and her attorney has said she intends to defend herself in court.
Separately, the House Ethics Committee recently found that Cherfilus-McCormick violated campaign finance and House rules on multiple counts following a lengthy public hearing. The committee is expected to consider possible disciplinary actions, which could include censure or a recommendation for expulsion from Congress.
Her legal team has argued that the ethics proceedings should be delayed because of the pending federal criminal case, maintaining that she is innocent and deserves the opportunity to contest the allegations in court. The criminal case and ethics investigation remain ongoing, and no final determination of guilt has been made.
