News · Press Release

Ryan Zinke Stands With George Santos, Votes to Protect Serial Liar

Ryan Zinke, House Republicans back George Santos in U.S. House

Today, scandal-ridden Ryan Zinke voted to protect serial liar George Santos just a week after Santos was indicted on 13-counts by federal prosecutors and admitted guilt to criminal charges in Brazil.

House Democrats introduced a privileged resolution to expel Santos from Congress on Tuesday to ensure the people of New York’s Third Congressional district have a voice in Congress. Ryan Zinke and a majority of House Republicans voted to refer the resolution to the House Ethics Committee, thereby delaying accountability for voters in his district.

A motion to refer expulsion to the Ethics Committee only serves to protect Santos for the remainder of his term. 

Reminder: Last year, the Interior Department’s Inspector General found that Zinke “failed to abide by his ethics obligations” and “misused his public office for private gain” by negotiating a real estate deal as interior secretary. The watchdog later found that Zinke lied to investigators during an investigation over Zinke blocking two tribes from opening a casino. Zinke has also faced questions about his residency, with his wife claiming primary residence in California.

DCCC spokesperson Jacob Haythorn: 
“Ryan Zinke voted to protect the lies, deceit, and disgrace of George Santos, which is no surprise given Zinke’s own history of unethical behavior and lying for personal gain. He is corrupt and too weak to stand up to his Washington party bosses – Montanans will remember and hold him accountable.”

George Santos has been charged with wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds, and making false statements to Congress. Last month, Santos announced his intention to run for re-election, and has repeatedly stated he has no plans to resign.

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