House Speaker McCarthy: “If the Ethics Committee Finds Congressman Santos Broke the Law, He Will Be Removed” From Office”

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on Tuesday addressed the controversy surrounding freshman Congressman George Santos (R-N.Y.) and his admission of fabricating parts of his background. McCarthy said that while he stands by Santos, the congressman would be removed from office if the Ethics Committee finds he broke the law.

At a news conference, McCarthy was asked why he still supports Santos, who has lied about much of his background and résumé, including a false claim that his mother was at the World Trade Center during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. McCarthy said that because Santos was elected by voters in his district, he has a responsibility to uphold what they voted for.

“He has a responsibility to work and have their voice here, but at any time, if it rises to a legal level, we will deal with it then,” McCarthy said.

Despite the controversy, McCarthy has so far resisted calls to sack Santos, saying that he has an obligation to serve his constituents. “Because his constituents voted for him,” McCarthy said.

The House Ethics Committee is currently investigating Santos’ background and résumé. If the committee finds that Santos has broken the law, McCarthy said he would be removed from office.

The controversy surrounding Santos has sparked a debate about the ethics of elected officials and the responsibility of the House to hold them accountable. It remains to be seen what action the House will take if the Ethics Committee finds Santos has broken the law.