House Democrats file resolution to expel George Santos

A group of House Democrats on Thursday filed a resolution to expel Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) from Congress.

Why it matters: It’s the latest escalation of Democrats’ efforts to punish Santos for the serial fabrications he made about his background, resume and finances on the campaign trail.

Driving the news: Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), who led the resolution, told reporters that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) declining to block Santos from receiving a classified briefing, despite calls from Democrats to do so, was the "last straw."

Along with Garcia, the single-page resolution was introduced by fellow freshman Reps. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) and Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), all of whom, like Santos, are LGBTQ+. Reps. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) and David Cicilline (D-R.I.) are co-sponsors.

Garcia said he coordinated the move with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who has said he wants Santos to be the GOP's cross to bear.

What they're saying: "It is time for him to go," Garcia said. "He has been given plenty of time to resign and he has chosen not to do so."