"George Santos Parts Ways with the G.O.P."

George Santos, a disgraced former congressman expelled from the House, announced his departure from the Republican Party, opting to run as an independent in a House race on Long Island. Facing federal criminal charges, Santos criticized the GOP and declared his intent to bring "Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values" to the ballot in November. Despite potential impact on the race, Republican officials dismissed Santos's move as a ploy for attention, with one suggesting he could watch the election results from prison. Santos faces 23 federal felony counts and a trial in September.