Overview
- Rep. George Santos is facing a historic expulsion vote from the House of Representatives, led by fellow New York Republicans aiming to distance themselves from the allegations against him; including fabricating his personal story and stealing from donors.
- Speaker Mike Johnson has objected to the expulsion, arguing that Santos should have the right to due process and face his counts in court. This underscores a divide in the GOP, with some party members supporting Santos's expulsion.
- Santos's expulsion before his trial would make history, as the House has only expelled five members in its history - three during the Civil War and two following public corruption charges.
- Rep. Jim Jordan among others, argued Santos should not face expulsion merely based on charges, reiterating the principle of due process. However, this view is not shared by all GOP leaders, with Rep. Tom Emmer supporting the motion.
- If successful, Santos, who faces a total of 23 charges in federal court and has pleaded not guilty, would become the first representative to be removed from office without a criminal conviction since the Civil War.