WASHINGTON DC- In a vote that took place on Friday Long Island Congressman George Santos became the sixth member ever to be expelled from the U.S. House of Representatives. His expulsion will initiate a special election that will likely take place in February in what is anticipated to be a highly competitive race. All three Hudson Valley Congressional Representatives voted in favor of expelling Santos from Congress.
Representative Marc Molinaro (R-NY19) voted to expel Santos, calling him unfit to serve.
“I have always said and believe that public service is to be a dignified duty,” said Molinaro. “George Santos is the antithesis of this, and should not be a member of Congress. Expelling a Member of Congress should meet a high-bar. In the case of George Santos, that the bar has not only been met – but far-exceeded.”
Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY17), who also voted to expel Santos, said that he took “no joy” in his vote, but believes it was the right move.
“I fundamentally believe he is unfit to serve in public office, whether it is dog catcher, in his local community, or here in the halls of Congress,” said Lawler.
Representative Pat Ryan (D-NY18), the region’s only Democrat serving in the House, said that for too long the 3rd Congressional District has not had “responsible representation.”
“Before this Congress even started, I called for George Santos not to be seated,” said Ryan. “And while today I voted (again) to expel him, the stain of his dishonor will remain.”
Santos has been indicted in Federal Court on 23 charges including fraud, money laundering, falsifying records, and aggravated identity theft. He was also the subject of a House Ethics Committee Investigation that revealed he improperly used campaign funds.
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