Former New York Representative George Santos made a significant announcement on Friday, revealing his departure from the Republican Party. Despite facing multiple federal charges and having been expelled from the House last year, Santos expressed his decision to continue his congressional bid as an independent candidate.
In a social media post, Santos criticized the GOP and declared his intention to uphold “Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values” as an Independent candidate in November. He stated, “I in good conscience cannot affiliate myself with a party that stands for nothing and falls for everything,” and officially suspended his petitioning as a Republican for access to the ballot in #NY01.
Challenging the Party: George Santos Takes an Independent Path
Santos, who previously represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District on Long Island, recently announced his bid to challenge Republican Rep. Nick LaLota in the neighboring 1st District during President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address. LaLota, who introduced a resolution to expel Santos last fall, responded to the challenge by emphasizing his efforts to hold Santos accountable.
LaLota, known for his outspoken criticism of George Santos, expressed determination to defeat him, even if it required a primary battle. Santos, on the other hand, has maintained his innocence against the 23 federal charges he faces, which include allegations of fraud related to COVID-19 unemployment benefits and misuse of campaign funds.
To pursue his independent candidacy in November, Santos must submit an independent nominating petition with the signatures of 3,500 voters in New York’s 1st District to the Suffolk County Board of Elections by May 28.
