Federal authorities are investigating former congressman George Santos over wagers he placed on his own attendance at a State of the Union address, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.
Santos was referred to federal investigators after the betting activity came to light. The inquiry centers on whether he violated regulations by wagering on his personal actions, using what appears to be a prediction market platform.
The investigation marks another legal headache for Santos, who has faced mounting scrutiny since his election to represent New York's 3rd congressional district. His short tenure in office ended after a damning House Ethics Committee report detailed financial improprieties and alleged misconduct.
The specifics of how Santos placed the bets and which platform he used remain unclear, though the investigation suggests potential violations tied to conflicts of interest or gambling regulations tied to federal office holders.
Santos has not publicly commented on the federal investigation. His legal team has not responded to requests for statement on the matter.
Author Sarah Mitchell: "Using prediction markets to bet on your own congressional behavior is either the boldest or dumbest move in recent political history, and federal investigators clearly think it warrants a second look."
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