Woensdag 3 juni 2026 — Editie #3
GlobalRainbowNews

The global platform for LGBTQ+ news, analysis and stories. Independent and inclusive.

NederlandsGlobalDeutschFrançaisEspañol
Crime

George Santos Investigated for Betting on Himself

George Santos is a former US congressman who lied about his life. Now federal investigators are looking into whether he made money by misleading people about his plans.

RainbowNews EditorialJune 3, 2026 — United States3 min read
···

George Santos is a former US congressman. He is also a convicted felon. He is openly gay and was once seen as a historic figure in LGBTQ+ politics.

Santos built his political career on lies. He made up stories about his education and his work history. He also lied about his family background. Many people felt betrayed when the truth came out.

Now he is in trouble again. Federal investigators are looking at something new. They want to know if Santos made money by misleading people about his own future plans.

The investigation is focused on betting. Santos may have placed bets on himself. These were bets about what he would do next in his political career. He may have told people one thing and then done something different. That could have helped him win money.

This kind of behavior can be illegal. It is called fraud when someone lies to gain money. Investigators are now checking if Santos crossed that line.

Santos was expelled from the US House of Representatives in December 2023. This was a rare and serious step. It happened after a report showed many ethical violations. He was only the sixth member in US history to be expelled.

In 2024, Santos pleaded guilty to federal charges. These charges included fraud and identity theft. He is waiting to be sentenced.

For the LGBTQ+ community, the Santos story is complicated. He was elected in 2022 as one of the first openly gay Republican congressmen. Some people saw this as progress. But his many lies and legal problems damaged that image quickly.

Critics say Santos used his LGBTQ+ identity as part of his personal brand. They argue he did not truly represent the community. His actions brought shame instead of pride, they say.

The new betting investigation adds another chapter to his story. It shows that legal problems for Santos are not over. Federal investigators continue to look closely at his actions and his money.

The case is still ongoing. No final conclusions have been made yet.

RE

RainbowNews Editorial

Editor

Part of the RainbowNews editorial team.

Meer van deze auteur →

More in Misdaad