George Santos Expelled From Congress; 6th Member Ever Removed

WASHINGTON, DC — George Santos has been expelled from Congress. The third attempt to remove the embattled representative was successful on Friday morning.

Santos is only the sixth member of Congress to be expelled.

The final vote tally is 311 votes for expulsion, including 105 Republicans.

Moments before Speaker Mike Johnson gaveled the proceeding to a close, Santos exited the House and drove away.

But just before the vote, CNN reported the "betting is, he'll survive this," as the top GOP leadership said they supported keeping Santos in office.

Santos, whose 3rd District covers Queens and Nassau counties, pleaded not guilty to 23 federal fraud and conspiracy counts. It was discovered following his election win that the majority of his resume was fabricated.

While Santos survived an expulsion vote a month ago, the House Ethics Committee concluded that Santos committed federal crimes and violated the ethics of Congress.

The report found "substantial evidence" of wrongdoing as Santos engaged in personal purchases, including Botox treatment and luxury shopping sprees, using campaign funds.

"The expulsion of George Santos has removed a stain from this institution and will allow the residents of New York's 3rd Congressional District the opportunity to select a representative who is not engrossed in scandals," Rep. Anthony D'Esposito (R-Island Park) said.

D'Esposito's Long Island colleague, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County), who led the charge for Santos's removal, said Friday's vote showed a "strong precedent." LaLota said "A member who lies about everything about themselves to get elected will be expelled so voters can have a chance at a proper election.”

Santos' former communications director Naysa Woomer called it a "great day for both the House of Representatives & integrity. This vote serves as a reminder that Congress should be held to a higher standard for their conduct."

With the Santos expulsion, the House is reduced to 434 members until a special election is held this winter.

Governor Hochul has 10 days to call for a special election to fill the seat.

"I am prepared to undertake the solemn responsibility of filling the vacancy in New York’s 3rd District by scheduling a special election," Hochul said. "The people of Long Island and Queens deserve nothing less."

The election would take place 70-80 days later. The would-be candidates have made their voices heard.

Democrat Tom Suozzi, who previously held the 3rd District seat, and is seeking a return to Congress, issued this statement: "This is a much-needed step in our journey to repair a broken system. We must move beyond our petty, partisan, performative finger-pointing and address the real problems Americans face. Let’s fix this!"

Another candidate vying for the special election is former Democratic state senator Anna Kaplan.

"This has been an embarrassing episode, but now we can put it behind us by electing someone with a known track record of success and who wants the job."

Democrat Robert Zimmerman, who lost to Santos last November, said this isn't an opportunity for celebrating, "but a day of reflection on how we move forward." In a statement, Zimmerman said all Democrats need "to unite in support of a candidate committed to restoring decency and respect for Congressional District in the upcoming special election."

No primary is expected as party leaders from Queens and Nassau plan to choose the candidates for the special election.

"To the constituents of NY03, I do hope they elect a new member who will properly represent them in Washington," Woomer added.