Topline
The Justice Department has indicted disgraced Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.), according to CNN, after it was discovered the freshman congressman lied about most of his background and may have run afoul of campaign finance laws.
Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) arrives at Manhattan Court ahead of Former President Donald Trump’s … [+]
Key Facts
It’s not immediately clear what Santos has been charged with—investigators were reportedly looking into his campaign finance statements and allegations of sexual misconduct.
Santos could appear in federal court in New York’s eastern district Wednesday, according to CNN.
Santos’ office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Forbes, while the Justice Department declined to comment.
Santos has repeatedly denied any criminal wrongdoing, though he has admitted to fabricating some parts of his resumé.
Key Background
Santos has faced growing calls from Democrats and some Republicans to resign as the scandals surrounding him grow deeper, but the congressman has repeatedly refused to step down. Republican House leaders are not among those who have demanded Santos’ resignation yet—House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has repeatedly said an ongoing House Ethics Committee probe should determine Santos’ future. If the committee determines he committed wrongdoing, McCarthy says he should be expelled from Congress, which would require a two-thirds vote by House members.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicholasreimann/2023/05/09/rep-george-santos-criminally-charged-by-justice-department-report-says/