Disgraced former Rep. George Santos pleads guilty to federal charges
Former Republican Representative George Santos pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft and wire fraud related to his 2022 campaign. This plea comes ahead of a trial on multiple federal charges, including fraud linked to Covid-19 unemployment benefits and misusing campaign funds. Santos faces a minimum of two years in prison and must pay $373,000 in restitution, with sentencing scheduled for February 2025.
Santos expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that ambition clouded his judgment. His guilty plea concludes a nearly two-year saga marked by fabrications about his background and a series of legal troubles that led to his expulsion from Congress.
Despite initially resisting a plea deal and attempting a political comeback, Santos ultimately accepted responsibility for his conduct, marking a significant turn in his controversial political career.