How should Democratic leaders handle a lawmaker facing a felony charge?

U.S. Rep.-elect Lakesha Womack of North Carolina faces a felony charge over a rental car she allegedly failed to return in 2019. Authorities served Womack with a criminal summons at an October 2026 campaign event, and she is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 10. Womack accused her opponent’s campaign of exploiting an unresolved legal matter to attack her character. Under current House rules, members formally charged with felonies carrying potential prison sentences of at least two years are expected to step aside from committee assignments and party leadership positions.