Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05) has issued a statement regarding the House's decision to expel Rep. George Santos (NY-03) from Congress. The vote, which was bipartisan, resulted in a 311 to 114 majority in favor of expulsion.

Rutherford, who serves on the House Ethics Committee, emphasized his commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards, House Rules, and the rule of law. He stated, "I have dedicated my life to law and order. I took a sworn oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution, and as a member of the House Ethics Committee, I am charged with the responsibility to hold all members of the House to the highest ethical standards."

The investigation into Rep. George Santos began on February 28, 2023, when the Ethics Committee's Investigative Subcommittee (ISC) launched a thorough examination of his actions. Rutherford, who served on the ISC, revealed that the committee's unanimous conclusion was that there was substantial evidence to suggest that Rep. Santos knowingly and repeatedly violated federal laws and House Rules.

The violations included filing false and incomplete reports with the Federal Election Commission, misusing campaign funds for personal purposes, engaging in fraudulent conduct related to RedStone Strategies LLC, and violating the Ethics in Government Act through inaccurate Financial Disclosure Statements filed with the House.

Rutherford expressed his belief that Rep. Santos's conduct was unacceptable for someone holding public office, stating, "The ISC found Rep. Santos's conduct to be beneath the dignity of the office and to have brought severe discredit upon the House."

In light of the ISC's findings, Rutherford voted in favor of H. Res. 878, which called for Rep. Santos's expulsion from the U.S. House of Representatives. He explained that this decision was made to uphold the integrity of the institution and hold those who break the rules accountable.

While Rep. Santos is entitled to due process in his criminal prosecution, Rutherford emphasized that as a member of the House, he must be held to the highest standards of conduct. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the public's faith in the institution, stating, "The Constitution charges the House with policing the behavior of its own Members, and the House should take whatever action it deems appropriate in light of the ISC's findings."

With the expulsion decision made, the focus will now shift to Rep. Santos's criminal prosecution, where he will have the opportunity to present his case in court. However, the House has taken a strong stance on maintaining the integrity of its members and upholding the trust of the American public.

The expulsion of Rep. George Santos from Congress serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and that members of the House of Representatives must be held accountable for their actions.

To find out more, go to this link: https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-statement-vote-expel-george-santos-congress