Following Tom Suozzi’s victory over Mazi Melesa Pilip in the recent special election for New York’s 3rd congressional district, the Republican majority in the House shrank even further.
The special election was called due to the removal of former GOP Rep. George Santos, who was expelled from Congress in a 311-114 vote. A total of 105 Republicans and almost every House Democrat voted to oust him from the lower chamber.
Despite Suozzi winning the seat for the Democratic party, the Republicans who supported Santos’ removal stated that they still support their decisions.
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Representative Mike Lawler, a Republican representing a swing district centered in the suburbs north of New York City, informed Politico that Santos is responsible for the GOP losing a crucial seat.
“I didn’t reduce the Republican majority — George Santos reduced it by his actions,” Lawler stated to the outlet. “I apologize, but there must be standards upheld within the halls of Congress.” So, I have no regrets about my decision to vote for George Santos’ expulsion.
“He was not suitable to serve … At times, these choices transcend politics,” the congressman remarked.
Santos is currently facing 23 criminal charges related to alleged wire fraud, identity theft, and money laundering.
Republicans in New York and Washington attempted to undermine Suozzi by linking him to the country’s growing immigration issues. However, his strong reputation in Long Island and his skill in separating himself from President Joe Biden’s declining popularity played a key role in his victory over Pilip.
Pilip, a member of the Nassau County Legislature, was a relatively unknown figure in the district, but faced criticism from some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, for not energizing his MAGA supporters to vote for her.
Utah Senate Candidate Backs Santos’ Removal, GOP Divided on Party Loyalty
John Curtis of Utah, a candidate for the state’s open Senate seat this year, confirmed to Politico that he supported the decision to remove Santos from the chamber.
“My vote was not influenced by the election results.” He shared with the outlet that his actions were based on what he believed was the correct course of action. “If it was the correct decision, then the seat is irrelevant.”
Republicans such as Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Mike Collins of Georgia, who both opposed Santos’ removal, have a different opinion.
“Do not remove a Republican member of Congress who has not been convicted of a crime and is a valuable vote,” Greene stated to Politico.
After Suozzi’s win last week, Collins posted on X: “Who still believes it was a good idea for Republicans to assist Democrats in removing Santos?”
Santos expressed disapproval towards the New York Republicans who voted to remove him from Congress.
Following Suozzi’s return to the House later this month, Republicans will hold a 219-213 majority.