(NewsSpace.com) – Former Rep. George Santos (R-NY) is a controversial figure, to say the least. He’s currently facing 23 federal charges and was ousted from the House last December after an ethics investigation uncovered evidence of alleged fraud. That put him among the ranks of turncoats and those convicted of corruption charges in America’s history books. He recently announced his campaign for Congress (again) but has decided to end his dream of a comeback.
In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday, April 23, Santos said he has “decided to withdraw” from the race because staying in “guarantees a victory for the Dems.” He pointed out that there is a rise in antisemitism in the country, especially from Democrats, and that he can’t, in good conscience, remain a candidate. He signed off on the post, saying he plans to continue to work in politics, and saying, “It’s only goodbye for now; I’ll be back.”
The former congressman was seeking to represent the 1st District. He previously represented the 3rd. One Democrat running for the primary, John Avlon, said he was disappointed by Santos pulling out only because he “was really looking forward to the debates.”
Santos was riddled with scandal after scandal after he won the election in the 2022 midterms. His resume, including his work history and education, were discovered to be lies. Then, he was slapped with 23 federal charges, including falsifying records, conspiring to commit offenses against the US, making materially false statements to the Federal Election Commission, wire fraud, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, though he has expressed interest in working out a plea deal.
The former congressman asked the courts in January for more time because he was looking to work out a deal. However, his next court appearance is scheduled for August 13, and his trial is expected to start in September.
Copyright 2024, NewsSpace.com
