Justice Department opens criminal probe of Rep. Cory Mills

The Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into Representative Cory Mills, a Republican from Florida, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The congressman, who represents Florida’s 7th Congressional District, said he was unaware of the probe until contacted for comment on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Mills stated by text, "I know nothing about it," and later reiterated in a phone call, "This is the first I’m hearing about it." He speculated that the investigation likely stems from "all the things stemming from the Ethics investigation." One source indicated that the FBI contacted at least one person last year regarding Mills's finances and allegations of misconduct. The Justice Department and FBI declined to comment.

The federal probe adds to a series of controversies surrounding the congressman. The House Ethics Committee has been conducting a separate investigation into Mills, which was launched in November 2025 and expanded to include potential misuse of office, unreported gifts from overseas trips, improper favors, and sexual misconduct. The committee's work may now be deferred, as congressional ethics panels typically pause their...