In a significant development, Republican Representative George Santos has announced his decision not to seek reelection following the release of a damning report by the Ethics Committee. The report revealed “substantial evidence” indicating Santos’ misuse of campaign funds for personal purposes, prompting additional allegations to be referred to the Justice Department for further investigation.
The Ethics Committee detailed Santos’ “knowing and willful violations,” including filing false financial disclosure statements and incomplete reports with the Federal Election Commission. The committee accused Santos of attempting to exploit his House candidacy for personal financial gain.
Despite denouncing the investigation as a “biased report,” Santos declared that he would not seek reelection in 2024, citing the toll on his family from media scrutiny. He plans to hold a press conference outside the Capitol on November 30, coinciding with the House’s return from Thanksgiving recess and likely after a vote on whether to expel him.
The report further complicates Santos’ legal situation, as he faces 23 federal charges, including fraud related to Covid-19 unemployment benefits, misusing campaign funds, and providing false information about his personal finances in House disclosure reports. The Ethics Committee’s findings add weight to the expulsion effort, with committee members expressing support for removing Santos from office.
The report outlined extensive evidence of Santos’ misuse of campaign funds for personal expenses, including lavish travel, cosmetic services, and questionable expenditures during times designated as personal, such as his honeymoon. While sexual misconduct allegations were raised, the committee concluded there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the claim.
The decision not to seek reelection follows a failed expulsion effort earlier this month, and the upcoming motion to expel Santos signals renewed efforts, with committee members advocating for a two-thirds majority vote in favor of expulsion.
In response to the report, Speaker Mike Johnson’s spokesman expressed concern over the findings, urging lawmakers to consider the institution’s best interests. The report concludes that Santos’ conduct merits “public condemnation” and brings “severe discredit” upon the House.
As the saga unfolds, pressure is mounting on Santos to resign, with a history of fabrications and lies about his background adding to the calls for his departure. The Ethics Committee’s report is expected to influence the upcoming vote on expulsion, presenting a significant challenge for Santos to retain his congressional seat.