New York state lawmakers have filed a request with the Department of Justice to open an investigation into Rep. George Santos (R-NY).
The Long Island Press reports:
Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan (I-Woodbury) said he had submitted a letter to the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York seeking a federal investigation into Santos’ finances and campaign, which The New York Times disputed Monday. investigation. Lafazan also asked the House Ethics Committee to investigate.
“Yesterday, I joined civic leaders in District 3 in calling on Mr. Santos to be held accountable for his past fraud and to resign immediately,” Rafazan said. “In the 24 hours since, however, Mr. Santos has chosen not to contest either of the allegations. He has remained silent, protected by his lawyers, and hidden from the public. In fact, no one has been able to answer the simple question: Mr. Santos was where?
House Republicans hold a slim four-seat majority. If Santos were indicted or forced to resign, the Republican majority would be reduced by 25%. It only takes a few scandals or unforeseen events for House Republicans to lose their majority.
Santos has become a major issue for House Republicans. Rep.-elect Santos, who has disappeared, offered no explanation for the New York Times report.
Scandals are brewing. Republicans will support Santos because they need his votes, but if he has to resign or be indicted, it would be a major blow to the Republican House majority.
Jason is the managing editor. He is also a congressional correspondent for the White House Press Fellowship and PoliticusUSA. Jason has a BA in Political Science. His graduate work focused on public policy, specializing in social reform movements.
Awards and Professional Memberships
Member of the Association of Professional Journalists and the American Political Science Association
