NEW YORK — Long Island prosecutors have launched an investigation into U.S. Rep.-elect George Santos of New York, after revelations surfaced that the now-embattled Republican lied about his heritage, education and professional pedigree as he campaigned for office.
But despite intensifying doubt about his fitness to hold federal office, Santos has thus far shown no signs of stepping aside – even as he has publicly admitted to a long list of fabrications.
“The numerous fabrications and inconsistencies associated with Congressman-Elect Santos are nothing short of stunning,” said Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly, a Republican.
“The residents of Nassau County and other parts of the third district must have an honest and accountable representative in Congress,” she said. “No one is above the law and if a crime was committed in this county, we will prosecute it.”
Santos was scheduled to be sworn in Tuesday, when the U.S. House reconvenes. If he assumes office, he could have face investigations by the House Committee on Ethics and the Justice Department.
The New York attorney general’s office has already said it is looking into some of the issues that have come to light.
The Republican has admitted to lying about having Jewish ancestry, a Wall Street pedigree and a college degree, but he has yet to address other lingering questions – including the source of what appears to be a quickly amassed fortune despite recent financial problems, including evictions and owing thousands in back rent.
Some fellow Republicans had called for Congress and law enforcement to launch inquiries.
Santos’ campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.