Former Republican Rep. George Santos of New York pleaded guilty to identity theft and wire fraud on Monday after being expelled from the House in December 2023, according to The New York Times.
Santos pleaded guilty after facing 23 charges ranging from campaign finance fraud to identity theft starting in October 2023, The New York Times reported. ReportedSantos' expulsion in December shrank the GOP's already slim majority to just two seats, drawing criticism from New York Republicans in the battleground state who are facing tough re-election battles in November. (Related article: Vulnerable Democrats vote to remove George Santos from office. The situation is different now that the same Democrat has been indicted on bribery charges.)
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 4: Congressman George Santos (R-NY) walks through a crowd gathered outside the courthouse where former US President Donald Trump will arrive later that day for his arraignment on April 4, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Drew Ungerer/Getty Images)
Santos pleaded not guilty in May to a 13-count indictment related to wire fraud, conspiracy, making false statements to the House of Representatives and theft of public funds.
Among those showing up were New York Republican Reps. Anthony D'Esposito, Nick LaLota, Brandon Williams and Mike Lawler, who face tough battles in November. Against Santos released a statement Sunday ahead of his guilty plea.
“Ten months ago, we led a campaign for justice and to represent New York by removing serial con man George Santos from the House of Representatives,” the lawmakers said in a statement. “Now, with reports emerging that Santos is in discussions with prosecutors about a plea deal, it is essential that justice continues to be served and that Santos is held fully accountable for his actions in betraying the trust of his constituents and defrauding his donors.” (RELATED: George Santos breaks silence after arrest, slams Biden family and DOJ)
After Santos was expelled, a special election to replace the ousted council member was held in February, with Democrat Tom Suozzi defeating Republican candidate Mazie Melesa Pilip by about eight points. Unfavorable the Republican House Conference and the New York Republican Party.
“The theft of an election and the misappropriation of millions of dollars is a grave betrayal of the public trust and undermines our democratic process,” the lawmakers said in a statement. “We are united in our determination to uphold the rule of law and ensure that those responsible face appropriate consequences, and we hope that now that Mr. Santos has completed his sentence, he will acknowledge his mistakes and embark on a more honest path.”
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