When it was announced that Carlos Santos had been expelled from Congress after mishandling public funds, few expected he would be given a second chance by another sitting Congressman.
But that’s exactly what happened when John Fetterman, mayor of Braddock, Pennsylvania, hired Santos in June to take a shot at the re-election of veteran Senator Robert Menendez.
Santos appeared on Fetterman’s official website giving his first public statement since the expulsion.
I am deeply thankful to Mayor Fetterman and the Braddock community for giving me another chance to serve our state, Santos said. I intend to work hard for our constituents every day and ensure that their voice is heard in Washington.
Santos made sure to emphasize how his experience leading the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and working with various committees provides an essential connection between Latin America and the Capitol.
I have been fighting hard for my constituents for years and although I have made mistakes, my love for this country and my dedication to serve and represent the people will never waver, Santos said.
The move to hire Santos was praised by Latino activists and even some of Santos’ previous critics. Jose Garces, a Philadelphia-based activist said that even though Santos failed the people of his former district, he still has a lot to offer and he deserves the same chance as anyone else.
Fetterman also saw this as an opportunity to send a message to budding young Latino political hopefuls.”Our democracy should be a place where ambitious young people, regardless of their background, can come and serve our country in a meaningful way,” Fetterman said.
Now it’s up to Santos to prove he’s up to the task of taking on Bob Menendez. With his hiring he gets a second chance to prove to the people of Pennsylvania that he can stand up for them and make a difference in Washington.