Congressman Dan Goldman and Congressman Ritchie Torres to Introduce ‘SANTOS’ Act
‘Stopping Another Non Truthful Office Seeker’ Act (SANTOS) Requires Candidates for Congress to File Additional Biographical Information
Willfully Providing False Information Punishable by Fine, Prison, or Both
Read the Bill Here
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) today announced they will introduce the “Stopping Another Non Truthful Office Seeker” – or “SANTOS” – Act in the 118th Congress. The SANTOS Act would require that candidates for Congress file additional biographical information with the Federal Elections Commission. Knowingly and willfully providing false information would be punishable by a fine, prison, or both.
“The web of lies George Santos used to defraud his voters is a threat to our free and fair elections, and we have an obligation to ensure nothing like this ever happens again,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “His entire candidacy for Congress was predicated on a campaign of disinformation designed to deceive the voters. Santos lied about his entire biography and resume, including religion, family history, education, and professional experience. I am proud to join my fellow New York Congressman Ritchie Torres to introduce this critical piece of legislation to safeguard the democratic process.”
Congressman Ritchie Torres said: “I am appalled at the level to which George Santos has purposefully and continually lied to the American public about every facet of his professional and personal life. His deception is a stain on our Democratic process and threatens to corrupt the very institution in which I am deeply humbled and proud to serve. We must work to ensure that our elected leaders are being truthful and transparent with voters, and I remain as committed as ever to doing just that.”
The SANTOS Act amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require any candidate for Congress to file additional information about their educational background, military service, and employment history.
A candidate who knowingly and willfully provides false information would be punished with a $100,000 fine, one year in prison, or both.
The SANTOS Act would apply to federal elections held on or after the day in which it is signed into law.
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