Embattled U.S. Representative George Santos is facing a renewed effort to expel him from Congress following the release of a damning report by the bipartisan House Ethics Committee. The report, which detailed violations of House rules and evidence of campaign fraud, has prompted Republican Chairman Michael Guest to introduce a resolution for expulsion. If successful, Santos would become the sixth representative to be ejected in the chamber's history.

The committee's investigation uncovered substantial evidence of wrongdoing, including the misuse of campaign funds for personal expenses such as Botox, luxury goods, and vacations. This revelation has caused support for Santos to dwindle rapidly among lawmakers from both parties. Many have expressed their disappointment in his illegal and unacceptable conduct and believe that the ethics report is the final straw after a year's worth of political headaches caused by Santos.

At this juncture, Santos faces a crucial decision. He must decide whether to fight a potentially humiliating expulsion or preemptively resign in hopes of currying favor with prosecutors. By leaving Congress, Santos would forfeit his $174,000 annual salary, and any chance of receiving a congressional pension after retirement. Despite the mounting pressure, Santos has remained unrepentant, dismissing the investigation as a "politicized smear" and vowing to continue serving his constituents.

The potential expulsion vote serves as an early test for Speaker Mike Johnson, the new Republican leader. Johnson had previously suggested that it would be premature to eject Santos while a criminal case was underway. However, he declined to offer Santos cover in a statement on Thursday, calling the report "very troubling" and urging members of both parties to consider the best interests of the institution.

Meanwhile, back in New York, leaders from both parties have already begun discussing a possible special election to fill Santos's seat early next year. Although President Biden won the seat by eight points in 2020, Republicans have dominated the area since then. If Santos steps down or is removed, his seat would be subject to a special election scheduled by Governor Kathy Hochul of New York.

Expulsion from Congress is a rare occurrence, with only five representatives having been expelled in the history of the House. The precedent-setting nature of this case has been a point of contention among members of Congress. Some argued that Santos deserves due process and should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the Ethics Committee chose to pursue its own investigation and release its findings publicly, citing a duty to safeguard the integrity of the House and the interests of justice.

The vote on Santos's expulsion is expected to take place after Thanksgiving, and it remains to be seen whether he will retain the support of his fellow Republicans. With the narrow House majority held by Republicans, they can ill-afford to lose his seat. However, growing disillusionment among lawmakers and pressure from constituents who demand better from their representatives may sway the vote against him.