"Former GOP Member George Santos Announces Independent Run for Congress After Party Drama"

Former New York Rep. George Santos, facing federal charges and expulsion from the House, has announced his departure from the Republican Party and plans to run for Congress as an independent, vowing to bring "Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values" to the ballot. Santos, who previously represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District, intends to challenge Republican Rep. Nick LaLota in the 1st District. LaLota, who introduced a resolution to expel Santos, has responded by expressing his intention to hold Santos accountable. Santos, who has pleaded not guilty to 23 federal charges, must file an independent nominating petition with 3,500 voter signatures by May 28 to run as an independent in November.