How Much Will Rep.-Elect George Santos Earn in Congress?

Republican Rep.-elect George Santos of New York is facing numerous calls to resign after he admitted lying about his job history and income. A New York Times story indicated that in the recent past Santos struggled with his finances, taking loans from friends (some of which were allegedly not repaid) and facing eviction from apartments.

In a tweet, out congressman Ritchie Torres of New York raised a pertinent question, referencing Santos's past position as a call center employee, where he earned $55,000 a year.

Journalist David Corn raised similar questions about the mystery of Santos's money.

So should Santos actually take office in January, how much will his taxpayer-sponsored salary lift his troubled bottom line? Most freshmen congressmembers earn $174,000 a year, according to Indeed.com. Benefits also include health insurance, a "family death gratuity" in case they expire, a pension (if they serve in office five years or longer), and "annual allowances that cover the personal expenses of doing their job. This includes expenses for their office, travel, goods and services. The allowance provides additional funds added to the base salary for the use of job-related purchases and costs."

It appears that Santos has much incentive for attempting to stick out this scandal and assume office next month.