Associated Press – George Santos Expulsion: Implications in New York Congressional Races
The recent expulsion of George Santos from the House is expected to impact significant congressional races in New York next year. Democrats are eyeing five seats held by first-term Republicans and seek to link them to their disgraced former colleague in the state’s congressional delegation. Their success in doing so could sway the majority in the House after the 2024 elections.
The strategy of association was clear as Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York criticized House Republicans in the lead-up to Santos’ expulsion. Jeffries accused the Republicans of knowingly concealing information about Santos, which put them under public scrutiny once the truth emerged. The concern that Santos could tarnish other Republican members’ standing with voters was evident as New Yorkers played a pivotal role in the drive to expel him.
In New York, Republican Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, who introduced the resolution to expel Santos, was supported by other first-term lawmakers from the state. These efforts took place amid reports of Santos’ dishonesty, federal charges, and a highly critical report from the House Ethics Committee. All these collectively became an embarrassment to the party, affecting Santos and his colleagues’ political credibility.
Despite this, Rep. Richard Hudson, chairman of the campaign arm for House Republicans, dismissed the potential threat of Santos tainting other Republicans in the upcoming election and highlighted issues like inflation and safety that will weigh more heavily on voters’ minds.
On the contrary, Democrats believe the expulsion was overdue, and they will ensure voters are aware of the Republicans’ role in enabling distrust and corruption. The race for the vacant Santos seat in the upcoming special election is expected to draw significant attention and will likely have a strong impact on the political landscape in New York.
**About the author: AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.**
