Federal prosecutors have filed criminal charges against Republican Representative George Santos from New York.
This week, Santos, the divisive politician who has drawn criticism for telling multiple lies during his 2022 campaign, is scheduled to appear in court.
“Santos is expected to appear as soon as Wednesday at federal court in New York’s eastern district, where the charges have been filed under seal. The exact nature of the charges couldn’t immediately be learned but the FBI and the Justice Department public integrity prosecutors in New York and Washington have been examining allegations of false statements in Santos’ campaign finance filings and other claims,” CNN reported.
“The freshman congressman, who was elected last year to represent a district that includes parts of Long Island and Queens, has been under investigation in multiple jurisdictions and by the House Ethics Committee. Top Democrats, joined by some New York Republicans, have been calling on Santos to resign over allegations ranging from criminal behavior on the campaign trail to petty personal dishonesty stretching back more than a decade,” the outlet added.
Santos has acknowledged making some false statements, but he disputes some of the more serious accusations.
Tapper: George Santos of New York is now facing criminal charges. pic.twitter.com/MJ5Kq3n6iU
— Acyn (@Acyn) May 9, 2023
Santos, who was elected during the midterm elections in November, has opposed liberal policies that “allow dangerous criminals to roam our cities and streets.”
“Criminals must be held accountable for their actions. Democrats in New York and across the country are putting criminals above law-abiding citizens,” he claimed according to the New York Post. “Our community is becoming more and more dangerous at the hands of Democrat leadership.”
Santos received support from six law enforcement organizations on Long Island and in New York’s Third Congressional District.
“Law enforcement across New York is tired of being demonized by the Democrat Party.” Santos said. “They see that the DC elitists will never have their back, which is why they trust me to be a voice for them in Washington. These men and women make it their job to protect us, so I am making it my mission to protect them. I will be a firm advocate for federally funding our law enforcement and ensuring that they have the resources they need to protect themselves and our law-abiding citizens. The crime trickling in from New York City is impacting our area at record levels. This crisis must be stopped immediately through common sense solutions to keep us safe from rogue and anti-police Democrat policies.”
“The people of New York have spoken and it is clear that crime is the top issue this November. George Santos is proud to have the support of local law enforcement and he looks forward to working alongside them to ensure the safety of New York’s Third Congressional District,” Santos added.
“Our brave officers in New York’s Third District deserve a strong voice and advocate in Washington,” Santos said. “I am the candidate in this race with a strong commitment to providing our officers the resources they need to protect themselves and our law-abiding citizens. Law enforcement is backing me because they know I will have their back in Washington. The crime trickling in from New York City is impacting our area at record levels. This crisis must be stopped immediately through common sense solutions to keep us safe from rogue and anti-police Democrat policies.”
Even nonetheless, a number of Republican members have demanded Santos’ resignation.
