Expelled former Rep. George Santos made a surprising return to Congress to attend President Biden’s State of the Union address, just months after being kicked out of the House. Santos, a Republican from New York, was only the sixth member ever expelled from the House, and his return raised eyebrows among his former colleagues.
Former lawmakers often attend the State of the Union address, as they are granted lifetime access to the U.S. Capitol after leaving Congress. Santos took advantage of this privilege to make a bold statement and troll his former colleagues. Dressed in a dark sport coat and a bedazzled collar, Santos made it clear that he was not there as a mere spectator.
During the address, Santos announced his intention to run for Congress again, in a different district from the one he previously represented. This move has drawn criticism, as Santos is facing numerous charges, including lying to Congress and misusing campaign funds. His trial is set to begin in September, but it remains to be seen if Santos could run for office from jail if convicted.
Santos’ return to the Capitol has sparked calls for stricter rules regarding the privileges granted to expelled members. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from New York, has introduced the GEORGE Act, which would prevent expelled members from returning to the Capitol. However, enforcing such a rule would be challenging, as Congress has been selective in enforcing its own rules in the past.
The controversy surrounding Santos’ return is not the only one to arise from the State of the Union address. Gold Star father Steven Nikoui was arrested by the U.S. Capitol Police for disrupting Congress after he shouted “Abbey Gate” multiple times during President Biden’s speech. Nikoui’s son was killed during the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Many have criticized the arrest, arguing that Nikoui was simply exercising his right to free speech.
Meanwhile, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican from Georgia, wore a red “MAGA” hat throughout the speech, despite House rules prohibiting the wearing of hats on the floor. The House Speaker did not intervene or enforce the rule, raising questions about the consistent application of House rules.
In conclusion, George Santos’ return to Congress and the controversies surrounding the State of the Union address have highlighted the need for clearer rules and consistent enforcement in the U.S. Capitol. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to address these issues to maintain the integrity and decorum of the nation’s legislative body.
