WASHINGTON (TND) — Representative George Santos has declared he will not seek another term in office following the release of a report by the House Ethics Committee. The report cites “substantial evidence” of “uncharged and unlawful conduct.”

The report includes accusations that Santos blatantly stole money from his campaign, using it for personal expenditures. Notably, over $4,000 was spent at Hermes, with additional funds going towards smaller payments on OnlyFans and purchases at Sephora.

Misuse of campaign funds is not a rare accusation in the political realm and penalties for violating the Federal Election Campaign Act vary, with fines and prison sentences up to five years per violation. Additionally, expulsion from office is on the table, and the House is expected to pursue this action upon its return from Thanksgiving recess.

The Federal Election Commission (FEC) has kept an accounting of the fines it has handed out since 1977. In fiscal year 2023 alone, the FEC handed out at least $2,427,697 in penalties.

House rules strictly prohibit the use of campaign funds for personal expenses, including meals and travel. Furthermore, these rules emphasize the importance of keeping campaign money separate from personal funds.”

The Federal Election Campaign Act explicitly forbids the use of campaign funds for personal expenses, defined as “any commitment, obligation, or expense that would exist irrespective of the candidate’s campaign.” In other words, the expense would still exist even if the person was not a candidate or officeholder.