George Santos, a former Congressman seeking re-election, made waves by leaving the Republican Party to run as an independent for New York's First Congressional District. Criticizing the recent budget deal that the House approved for funding the federal government through September, George Santos said, “...I will take my Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values to the ballot in November as an Independent.” He vowed to challenge Nick LaLota, the current Republican representative, and John Avlon, a Democratic nominee hopeful. LaLota had previously proposed expelling Santos, adding further tension to the electoral landscape. #Queer Up Politics