LI Congressman Seeks 'Swift Decision On Santos Being Removed'

WASHINGTON, DC — As the House Ethics Committee investigates Rep. George Santos, his Long Island Republican colleague Anthony D'Esposito introduced legislation that is a proactive step toward the future.

The No Fame for Fraud Resolution and the No Fortune for Fraud Act were unveiled Tuesday.

"If someone is convicted of a financial crime who serves as a member of Congress, that individual would be unable to financially benefit."

That person would be barred from profiting from a book, TV or movie deal. D'Esposito said it would also extend to documentaries and reality shows.

"Whatever he or she may be trying to do to generate based by their lies and fabrications, they would be unable to do that," D'Esposito told Patch.

D'Esposito is using Santos as the template for the legislation, expecting it to pass in a timely fashion, in time to potentially impact the 3rd District representative directly.

But for now, Santos has been, overall, unapologetic and unrepentant for lies highlighting his job history and other personal falsehoods, such as claiming his mother survived the 9/11 attacks.

"He has spent the better part of two years legitimately duping voters and fabricating his life in order to become a member of Congress," D'Esposito said. "I think being caught in his many lies are going to change his stripes."

D'Esposito, who took office from the 4th Congressional District in January, said he'll remain a strong voice in opposition to Santos.

"Not only should he resign, but there should be a decision on him being removed from Congress," he said. "I look forward to a swift and concise investigation."

While D'Esposito doesn't know the House Ethics timeline, he thinks all types of penalties are on the table for Santos.

"When it comes to George Santos, I think we can all agree that, literally, anything is possible," D'Esposito said.