Tomte is not really Santa. It's more a gnome like creature. He's normally living near farms and protects the family and animals. The connection with christmas is quite new and seems more connected with it's other name Nisse, or Julenisse in particular. "The Tomten" by Astrid Lindgren seems to give a good overview of the folklore.
Why? Does he know when you are naughty? Do you also feel like watching out and not crying when he comes to town?
If I recall correctly, the story of Tomte is one where he is alone on Christmas night, pondering what life and death is, and decides that the art of giving is best virtue. He then knocks on everyone's door with a pig beside him and hands out presents to everyone who opens it for him.
we need more Tomtes in this imperfect world of ours.