The House of Representatives of the United States Congress passed a resolution on Friday (May 12) by an overwhelming majority of 420 votes to 10 to expel Republican Congressman George Santos from New York State, the third such event in US history. Santos, who is charged with fraud, money laundering, stealing public funds and other counts, pleaded not guilty to 13 federal criminal charges earlier this week and refused to resign.
Santos is a first-time lawmaker who fabricated his academic qualifications, work history and wealth during his campaign to portray himself as a self-made successful man. However, his lies were debunked by the New York Times and others late last year, triggering an investigation by federal prosecutors. In May, Mr. Santos was indicted by a federal grand jury for setting up a fake super PAC to trick donors into donating to him and then use the money to buy designer clothing and pay off debtsHe also misrepresented income** and amounts in his personal financial disclosure report to Congress;He also fraudulently received 2$40,000 in unemployment benefits.
Santos pleaded not guilty to all charges when he appeared in court on Wednesday (May 10) and claimed that he was subjected to a "witch hunt" by the political **. He also said that he would not resign but would continue to seek re-election. His lawyer also said that they would defend Santos, arguing that he was innocent until proven guilty.
Santos's justification, however, did not impress his colleagues and constituents. The Republican leadership in the House of Representatives, while not forcing Santos' resignation, did not defend him. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Thursday (May 11) that he was "very disappointed" by Santos' charges and said he would be expelled from Congress if Santos was convicted. Other Republicans have been more direct in demanding Mr. Santos' resignation, arguing that he has brought disgrace to the party and Congress. Democrats have been more hawkish, introducing a resolution on Thursday asking the House of Representatives to vote on Santos on whether to expel him.
Friday's vote showed that an overwhelming majority of lawmakers supported Santos' expulsion. Only 10 Republicans voted against it, arguing that they should wait until the conclusion of Santos' case before making a decision. Santos did not make any statement before the vote and was not present for the vote. His office also did not respond to requests for interviews from reporters.
Santos' expulsion was the third time in American history and the first since 1861. The two members of parliament who were previously expelled were William Clark and John Bull, who were considered treason for their support of the Confederacy. Santos' expulsion means he will lose his congressional seat and salary, as well as his eligibility to run. His case is still ongoing, and his next court appearance is scheduled for June 30.