In the tumultuous year of 2023, the House of Representatives was thrown into disarray, a caricature of what a legislative body should represent. Amidst the chaos, Republican congressman George Santos from New York emerged as the emblem of disorder. Faking Wall Street jobs, college credentials, and even a volleyball championship, Santos fabricated much of his life story, with wild stories that included false claims of being Jewish and saving dogs. Accused of stealing money from his political donors, the truth about him came to light only after he was elected.
Sworn into Congress, it left many people asking how a con man made it to such a position and what drove him to lie so recklessly. From his time dressing in drag in Brazil to laboring in a dreary New York call center, Santos relentlessly pursued money and fame at every turn, capitalizing on his political journey on Long Island. Yet, authorities turned a blind eye, and the GOP supported him due to cynical political and fundraising tactics, despite widespread falsehoods.
Taking cues from Donald Trump, Santos emulated the brazen behavior of the former president and the current leader of the Republican party. Now, facing a string of federal charges, Santos has announced that he will not seek re-election and is grappling with the possibility of expulsion following a damning report from the House Ethics Committee.
As the wheels of justice begin to turn, not only for Santos but also for Trump, Santos’ sensational story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers that ensue when deceit becomes the norm. For further insights into the entire saga, readers can delve into Mark Chiusano’s gripping book, “The Fabulist: The Lying, Hustling, Grifting, Stealing, and Very American Legend of George Santos.” Available in Hardcover, eBook, and Audio formats via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.org on November 28. For more information, visit markchiusano.com.
Consequently, as the world grapples with mounting challenges, news continued to unfold with reports on Italy’s Mount Etna volcano, a release of hostages from Hamas custody, and a flood of sexual assault lawsuits filed in New York before the expiration of a temporary law.
