Calls for Rep. Santos Resignation Grow Amid Indictment, GOP Resists

Fellow lawmakers on Wednesday demanded the resignation or expulsion of controversial Rep. George Santos from Congress, following his indictment on a string of federal charges. Despite the outcry, Republican House leaders stated that no action will be taken unless the Long Island representative faces conviction.

Many Republicans have voiced their disapproval, with Rep. Nick LaLota condemning Santos as a "complete embarrassment" and Rep. Anthony D'Esposito labeling him a "serial fraudster." Rep. Marc Molinaro expressed his belief that Santos should have resigned months ago and that, "sooner or later, honesty and justice will be delivered to him."

Regardless, GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy refuses to pressure Santos to resign until a conviction or guilty plea occurs. McCarthy argued that you are "innocent till proven guilty" in America and cited a similar situation involving Rep. Jeff Fortenberry. Rep. Elise Stefanik stressed that this is not the first indictment of a congressional member, maintaining the GOP's stance on innocence until proven guilty.

If Santos does not step down, the House may attempt to expel him through a vote, although this would require a two-thirds majority and the support of Republican leaders. Historically, only two lawmakers have been expelled since the post-Civil War period, both following corruption charges convictions.

Rep. Dan Goldman, a Manhattan Democrat, criticized the GOP's defense of Santos, asserting that he is a liability based on the information in the indictment and his admitted lies. Goldman urged Speaker McCarthy to act and "eliminate the stain of Santos" on the institution, adding that they "cannot wait any longer."