George Santos Pulls Out Of Re-Election Race Amid Ethics Committee Findings: 'My Family Deserves Better Than To Be Under The Gun From The Press All The Time'

In the wake of a report from the Ethics Committee, Republican Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) announced on Thursday his withdrawal from the re-election race for the House next year.

As per a CNN report, the investigation exposed “considerable evidence” of Santos misappropriating campaign funds for personal purposes.

The Committee’s probe also disclosed additional “uncharged and illicit behavior” by Santos, immediately warranting a referral to the Justice Department for further examination. The report asserted that Santos had committed “deliberate and willful violations” in relation to financial disclosure statements and had led his campaign committee to submit incorrect reports to the Federal Election Commission.

Despite the incriminating revelations, Santos maintained his stance, dubbing the investigation as a “prejudiced report” and a “disgusting politicized smear.”

Following the report’s disclosure, Santos wrote on X, "I will however NOT be seeking re-election for a second term in 2024 as my family deserves better than to be under the gun from the press all the time."

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On Nov. 30, the New York Republican intends to conduct a press briefing outside the Capitol, presumably post the House vote on his possible expulsion. Santos has previously pleaded not guilty to 23 federal charges, including alleged fraud tied to COVID-19 unemployment benefits, misuse of campaign funds, and falsifying his personal finances on House disclosure reports.

A spokesperson for Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) described the report’s findings as “extremely disturbing.” While Johnson stopped short of demanding Santos’ resignation, he appealed to lawmakers, including Santos, to contemplate the best interests of the institution as they continue to address the issue.

House Ethics Committee Chairman Michael Guest (R-Miss.) plans to propose a motion to expel Santos as early as Friday, indicating a potential change in the Republican stance towards the congressman’s expulsion.

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