Federal investigators are examining whether former New York Congressman George Santos placed bets on prediction market site Kalshi while serving in office, according to reporting by NPR. The investigation focuses on potential violations of federal law governing congressional gambling and financial disclosure.
Santos responded to the NPR coverage with a violent threat directed at the reporter who broke the story. He later denied making the threat, contradicting the documented record of his communications.
The Kalshi investigation adds to Santos' mounting legal troubles. The Republican congressman already faces multiple federal indictments on charges including wire fraud, identity theft, and campaign finance violations. Prosecutors allege he used campaign funds for personal expenses including luxury goods and Botox treatments.
Prediction market betting on political outcomes raises questions about whether Santos engaged in prohibited conduct. Federal rules restrict members of Congress from trading on information not available to the public, and certain betting activities can violate conflict-of-interest statutes.
Santos was expelled from Congress in December 2023, making him only the sixth House member removed through the expulsion process in U.S. history. His expulsion followed a damning House Ethics Committee report detailing financial misconduct and personal wrongdoing.
The threat against the NPR reporter illustrates Santos' pattern of attacking journalists and critics rather than addressing substantive allegations. His initial denial of making the threat, followed by evidence to the contrary, reflects a broader strategy of evasion that has characterized his response to multiple investigations.
The Kalshi investigation represents another avenue for prosecutors building their case against Santos ahead of his trial on the fraud charges. Each new allegation compounds the former congressman's legal exposure as he faces accountability for his conduct in office.