Representative Burlison Warns Newsmax: Removing Santos Sets a Risky Precedent

Rep. Eric Burlison said on Newsmax Friday that expelling Rep. George Santos from Congress sets a “very dangerous precedent,” especially since he’s only been indicted and not found guilty of any crimes.

Burlison, a Republican from Missouri, commented on Newsmax’s “Newsline” about the congressional vote to remove Santos, R-N.Y., from office, adding that he voted against ousting the congressman.

The House voted Friday to expel Santos following release of a report from the House Ethics Committee accusing him of breaking federal law by converting campaign donations for his personal use. He is the sixth member in House history to be ousted by colleagues, with Friday’s 311-114 vote meeting the rule that two-thirds of the chamber must approve such a move. 

In May, the U.S. attorney’s office for the Eastern District of New York indicted Santos on charges of duping donors, lying to Congress, and stealing from his campaign. Prosecutors later added more charges in an updated 23-count indictment alleging Santos stole campaign donors’ identities and used their credit cards to run up tens of thousands of dollars in unauthorized charges. 

Burlison said the charges are serious, but expelling a member before they’ve been convicted in a court of law sets a dangerous precedent. He also noted that the charges against Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., who was indicted on Sept. 22 on bribery charges are “horrific, probably worse, much worse than what Santos has done,” but Menendez hasn’t been convicted and remains in office. 

“At the end of the day, if both of them end up being convicted, then let’s vote to expel those members,” said Burlison. “Let it be aired out in the courts, with a jury of their peers, the way that follows the rule of law.”

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