George Santos, national punchline, hit with criminal charges over web of lies

George Santos has made a name for himself in the worst way since announcing his campaign for the People's House. Now it's up to the courts to decide his fate.

It isn’t a crime to lie to the public. But after mounting evidence of financial improprieties, Santos surrendered to authorities yesterday as the Justice Department unsealed a 13-count criminal indictment. Howard Kurtz is the host of FOX News Channel's MediaBuzz (Sundays 11 a.m.-12 p.m. ET). Based in Washington, D.C., he joined the network in July 2013 and regularly appears on Special Report with Bret Baier and other programs.

The Republican was charged with wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds and making false statements to the House. He pleaded not guilty and was freed on $500,000 bail, put up by three unidentified people.