TRUMP IMITATOR REP. GEORGE SANTOS VOWS TO "FIGHT THE WITCH HUNT!"

 

Republican Congressman George Santos in center

ABC News_Rep.George Santos of New York appeared briefly in federal court on Long Island Friday for what attorneys called a "basic status conference" as the criminal case against him moves forward.

It was the first court appearance since the embattled Republican congressmanpleading not guilty last month to a 13-count indictment accusing him of fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds.

Republican leader in drag

The government has turned over more than 80,000 pages of material to Santos' legal team, prosecutor Ryan Harris told the judge, kicking off discovery in the case,Santos, who has denied wrongdoing, said nothing throughout the hearing.

His attorney, Joe Murray, told the judge they have had a "wonderful working relationship" with the government so far, and requested the next hearing occur in September -- saying they would use the August congressional recess to review documents.

When the judge suggested Sept. 14 as the next date, Murray noted that Santos would already be in back in session.

The next court date was then scheduled for Sept. 7.