George Anthony Devolder Santos, born July 22, 1988, is an American politician known for a highly controversial tenure as the U.S. representative for New York’s 3rd congressional district from January to December 2023. A member of the Republican Party, Santos gained initial prominence as the first openly LGBTQ Republican elected to Congress as a freshman.
However, his political career rapidly unraveled amid revelations that he fabricated large portions of his biography, including false claims about his education, work experience at Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, personal wealth, and family background. He also failed to disclose criminal charges and lawsuits against him. Investigations revealed misuse of campaign funds and identity theft.
Due to mounting evidence and a federal indictment for wire fraud and identity theft, the House of Representatives voted to expel Santos in December 2023 by a large bipartisan majority—a rare action in congressional history. In August 2024, he pleaded guilty to identity theft and wire fraud and was sentenced to 87 months in prison, which he began serving in July 2025. Notably, in October 2025, President Donald Trump commuted his sentence, making him eligible for immediate release.
Despite his fall from grace, Santos garnered support from some Republican leaders during his brief tenure but faced widespread calls for resignation from both parties. His case sparked national discussion on political ethics, the verification of candidates’ credentials, and accountability in public office. Santos is also known for his combative public responses, including defiance of calls for his resignation and critical remarks about colleagues.
In summary, George Santos represents a controversial figure in recent U.S. politics—initially elected as a young, openly gay Republican but later convicted of crimes stemming from systematic deception and fraud.
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