Lawler Hopes House Ethics Committee's Santos Probe Is Swift, Thorough

WASHINGTON, DC — The House Ethics Committee has officially launched an investigation into Congressman George Santos, who is accused of lying about most of his biography.

The congressman faces investigations at the local, state and federal level. There have been numerous calls for him to resign, including from U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, a fellow freshman Congressman who represents much of the lower Hudson Valley.

"As I've said before, George Santos' conduct is embarrassing and unbecoming. If he had any dignity, he would resign," Lawler said in response to the news about the committee. "This ethics investigation is long overdue and I look forward to a swift and thorough review."

The committee announced in a release on Thursday that the probe will have jurisdiction regarding whether the Republican "may have engaged in unlawful activity with respect to his 2022 congressional campaign; failed to properly disclose required information on statements filed with the House; violated federal conflict of interest laws in connection with his role in a firm providing fiduciary services; and/or engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual seeking employment in his congressional office."

Santos' response to the investigation came in a tweet: "The House Committee on Ethics has opened an investigation, and Congressman George Santos is fully cooperating. There will be no further comment made at this time."

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said: "If ethics finds something, we’ll take action." Santos previously told CNN that he was "not concerned" about the congressional investigation.

Santos admitted he lied about his work and job history while campaigning for the 3rd District seat.

Federal prosecutors are looking into Santos' finances and congressional filings, including possible illegal campaign funding and expenses.

The FBI is looking into a pet charity he founded amid allegations that he lied about the organization and stole donations, according to the New York Times.

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