WASHINGTON (AP) - In a historic move, House Republicans voted on Friday to expel indicted Rep. George Santos of New York, adding to the tumultuous year that the party has experienced in Congress.

This unprecedented move comes after Republicans first ousted their speaker, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, in October, marking the first time a House majority has voted to remove its own speaker. Now, the expulsion of Santos marks the first instance since the Civil War where the House has voted to expel a member who is charged but not yet convicted of a crime.

The turbulent 11 months for the House majority have been marked by internal conflicts, eroding the power of Congress and hindering actual governance. As the year draws to a close, House Republicans find themselves at a critical turning point, navigating a new era of performance politics and chaotic governing that shows no sign of abating.

Reflecting on the situation, Republican Rep. Mike Lawler, one of the leaders behind Santos' ouster, acknowledged the messiness of governance in a democratic republic. He stated, "Is it messy? Yeah, sure. But when you're actually governing in a democratic republic, it can be messy."

Santos, an embodiment and practitioner of a new style of governance, remains unfazed by the situation. This emerging system rewards charismatic personalities who gain prominence through often extreme public personas, overshadowing the quieter work of governing the nation. Despite being accused of fabricating aspects of his life story, Santos has embraced his role in history, treating it as another segment of his celebrity run in Congress.

Prior to the House vote, Santos held a news conference on the Capitol steps, confidently addressing questions about his future plans (he stated he will not seek reelection) and the alleged illegal use of campaign funds for his shoes (he claimed they were purchased several years ago).

While Santos continued to defend his personal narrative, emphasizing his representation of the New Yorkers who elected him to Congress, it will ultimately be up to his constituents to decide whether or not to remove him from office.

The expulsion of Santos only further adds to the ongoing power struggles and divisions within the House Republican majority. As the new year approaches, it remains to be seen how these internal dynamics will continue to influence legislative efforts and shape the political landscape in Washington.