Lying former GOP Rep. George Santos raised $0 in March toward his effort to get back into Congress after being expelled from the House of Representatives late last year in the wake of a federal indictment for alleged fraud and campaign finance violations.
“Santos for Congress,” a campaign committee launched to fundraise for the disgraced Republican-turned-independent’s bid to unseat Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) in the 1st Congressional District, reported no contributions or expenditures between March 7 and March 31, a Federal Election Commission document filed on Monday shows.
But according to the former congressman, the lack of money is intentional.
“I will not be raising a single dime until I’m confirmed on the ballot,” the 35-year-old told the Daily Beast Monday.
Santos explained that the unusual decision to not raise cash until later in the contest is meant to counter accusations that he’s only running against LaLota to “grift” money from the few supporters he has left.
“I’m setting the standard that only confirmed ballot access candidates should raise money,” Santos told the outlet.
Santos, who represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District for 11 months before his ouster Dec.1, is facing 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 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 witnessed a weak, frail president deliver spin and lies to the American people from inside the chambers,” Santos wrote on X. “I have made several 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 311-114 vote, with LaLota among 105 GOP lawmakers supporting his removal.
