"US Rep. George Santos under scrutiny for self-repayment of lackluster reelection funds"

Republican U.S. Representative George Santos, who is facing charges of financial crimes, including embezzlement, withdrew $85,000 from his campaign funds to repay a portion of the more than $700,000 he loaned himself for his successful 2022 election. Santos raised only $138,000 in the last three months for his reelection bid, while his potential Republican challenger raised over $200,000. The top Democrat in the race has raised over $345,000. Santos pleaded not guilty to the charges and has vowed to fight to keep his congressional seat, despite calls for his resignation.