Lying former Republican Rep. George Santos raised $0 in March for his efforts to return to Congress after being expelled from the House of Representatives late last year following a federal indictment for alleged fraud and campaign finance violations.
“Santos for Congress,” a campaign committee launched to raise money for the disgraced Republican-turned-independent’s bid to unseat Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) in the 1st Congressional District, has reported no contributions or expenditure between March 7 and 31. » shows a Federal Election Commission document filed Monday.
But according to the former MP, the lack of money is intentional.
“I will not raise a single cent until I am confirmed on the ballot,” the 35-year-old told The Daily Beast on Monday.
Santos explained that the unusual decision to not raise money until later in the competition is intended to counter accusations that he is only running against LaLota to “swindle” money from his few remaining supporters.
“I am setting the standard that only confirmed candidates with access to the ballot should raise funds,” Santos told the outlet.
Santos, who represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District for 11 months before his ouster on Dec. 1, faces a 23-count federal indictment for allegedly laundering his campaign money and defrauding donors.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The House Ethics Committee’s investigation into Santos also found that the former congressman used campaign funds for personal splurges, including X-rated OnlyFans subscriptions, Botox injections and lavish trips.
The panel’s report also found “substantial evidence” of criminal wrongdoing by Santos.
On March 7, after attending President Biden’s State of the Union address, Santos announced that he would attempt to challenge LaLota in November.
“I just watched a weak and frail president deliver manipulation and lies to the American people from inside the chambers,” Santos wrote on. “I have made many personal sacrifices in the name of serving the American people. My promise is that I will never back down because of my love for this country.
Santos was expelled from the House by a vote of 311 to 114, with LaLota among 105 Republican lawmakers supporting his impeachment.
New York Post
