George Santos: 5 Unbelievable Facts about The Man, The Myth, The Misstatements

In the realm of political theater, truth is sometimes stranger and funnier than fiction. Enter stage right, George Santos, the New York Congressman who managed to turn his biography into a choose-your-own-adventure story, where every choice was a fabrication. On May 9, 2023, Santos was charged with 13 federal criminal offenses by the Justice Department in the Eastern District of New York, including wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds, and making false statements to Congress. He pleaded not guilty. Here are the facts.

1. The Chameleon Congressman: A Master of Disguise

Santos, 34, a Republican representative hailing from the streets of Long Island and Queens, made his grand entrance into Congress in 2022. He appeared to have a knack for storytelling, spinning yarns about his heritage, educational background, and professional achievements that would make even the Brothers Grimm blush. Was he a Jewish former Citigroup or Goldman Sachs employee who generously loaned his campaign $750,000 from his own pocket? Spoiler alert: Nope.

2. From New York to Niteroi: The International Man of Mystery

Santos’ flair for fiction wasn’t just confined to American shores. His tales found their way to Brazil, where he was the subject of a criminal investigation in 2008. The alleged crime? Using stolen checks to buy flashy threads in a Niteroi clothing shop. Because who doesn’t love a bit of international intrigue with their politics?

3. Resignation Calls: A Bipartisan Chorus

In a rare moment of unity, Democrats and Republicans found common ground – in their calls for Santos’ resignation. It was like a game of Clue, with everyone trying to figure out who Santos really was. His creativity with facts had apparently caught the attention of the Nassau County District Attorney, the House Ethics Committee, and the Federal Election Commission.

4. May 9, 2023: D-Day for the Storytelling Congressman

The Justice Department in the Eastern District of New York decided to add some plot twists to Santos’ narrative. They charged him with 13 federal criminal offenses on May 9, 2023. However, the charges remain sealed like a surprise ending in a thriller novel.

5. Next Episode: Courtroom Confrontation

Santos pleaded not guilty on his May 10 court date. He denied charges that he conned donors, stole from his campaign, and lied to Congress, all while collecting unemployment benefits he didn’t deserve. He was released on a $500,000 bond and could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Sources

• AP News: George Santos pleads not guilty to a 13-count federal indictment
• DocumentCloud: George Santos indictment
• CNN Politics: Rep. George Santos Charged by Justice Department in federal probe
• NPR: Rep. George Santos faces a federal criminal charge
• The New York Times: George Santos Is Said to Face Federal Criminal Charges