Air Force veteran Greg Hatch launches primary challenge against George Santos

Air Force veteran and small business owner Greg Hatch launched his primary challenge against New York Republican Rep. George Santos, who is facing numerous scandals and investigations.

"I am running for Congress because honorable third district voters were conned by a crook and serial liar. I am running to restore integrity to an office that's been corroded by fraud," Hatch said Tuesday when he announced his campaign.

The New York branch of the International Union of Operating Engineers has already endorsed Hatch, who has spent the past two decades representing employees in workplace injury lawsuits.

Hatch's first campaign video opens by going through the negative news headlines about Santos' scandals before Hatch appears and pledges to "always put the best interests of everyday hard-working families first." 

Hatch also attacks liberal policies in the ad and says he will fight against Communist China, inflation, rising crimes and illegal immigration.

Santos pleaded not guilty in May to 13 federal charges, including money laundering, stealing public funds and wire fraud, and he was released on bond.

Santos, who was elected in 2022, filed to run for reelection in 2024 even as GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has said he should not.

In addition to Hatch, retired New York Police Department detective Mike Sapraicone launched his primary bid against Santos earlier this summer.

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