Judge orders names of GOP Rep. Santos's bail sponsors unsealed

A federal judge on Tuesday agreed to unseal the names of Rep. George Santos's, R-NY, bail sponsors at the request of media organizations, despite the lawmaker's attorney expressing concerns for their safety should their involvement in his case become publicized.

Santos has until 12:00 p.m. on Friday to appeal the decision from U.S. Magistrate Judge Anne Shields, The Hill reported. The New York Republican turned himself in this May to face arraignment on 13 federal charges, including wire fraud, money laundering, and stealing public funds.

He pleaded not guilty to 13 counts and secured release on $500,000 bond, which three individuals posted. He may travel between New York and Washington, D.C., but must secure advance approval to go elsewhere.

Santos's attorney, Joseph Murray, had argued against releasing the names of the bail sponsors, saying that "we truly fear for their health, safety and well being."

Murray further indicated that Santos would prefer to remain incarcerated ahead of the trial rather than allow his bail sponsors' identities to become public. 

Santos has faced intense scrutiny over his record and past unsavory actions, including the alleged criminal schemes for which he faces charges. He has also come under fire for fabricating large parts of his resume while on the campaign trail.

The House of Representatives voted in May to refer a resolution to expel him from the chamber to the House Ethics Committee.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.