Former Representative George Santos (R-N.Y.) has withdrawn his independent bid for Congress, citing a desire to avoid splitting the Republican vote and handing the seat to Democrats.
Santos, who was expelled from Congress in December after an investigation found he spent thousands of campaign dollars on personal expenses, had announced a challenge to Republican Rep. Nick Lalota (N.Y.) in early March.
In a statement Tuesday, Santos said he had decided to drop out of the race after meeting with constituents and leaders. He said he did not want his candidacy to contribute to a Democratic victory.
“Staying in this race all but guarantees a victory for the Dems in the race,” Santos wrote on Truth Social. “I have [met] with leaders and with constituents and I have made the decision to hang it up here and stop pursuing this race, THIS YEAR!”
“The future holds countless possibilities,” he added, “and I am ready willing and able to step up to the plate and go fight for my country at anytime.”
Santos also faces two federal indictments, one of which includes 23 counts of conspiracy, credit card fraud, and other crimes. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In his statement, Santos said he would continue to participate in public policy discussions.
“I will always strive to stand on the right side of history,” he said. “It’s only goodbye for now, I’ll be back.”
