NEW YORK (AP) — Freed from prison after serving time for defrauding his campaign donors, former U.S. Representative George Santos expressed feelings of humility yet dismissed criticism regarding his clemency issued by President Donald Trump. In a CNN interview, Santos remarked, “I’m pretty confident if President Trump had pardoned Jesus Christ off the cross, he would have had critics.”
Santos, who gained notoriety for fabricating a lavish persona as a Wall Street executive, pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft last year and began a seven-year sentence in July. His release after only eighty-four days was made possible by a clemency order from Trump, who described Santos as a “rogue” but asserted that he didn’t deserve a severe penalty and should be credited for his Republican votes.
During the CNN broadcast, Santos claimed to have learned valuable lessons during his time in prison and apologized to the constituents he misled, explaining that he was “in a chaotic ball of flame” when he perpetrated his crimes, admitting to defrauding donors and stealing identities, including those of family members.
Despite criticism from fellow Republicans over the early clemency, Santos countered by referencing other controversial pardons, particularly noting President Joe Biden’s decision to absolve his son, Hunter Biden, of gun and tax offenses.
In response to inquiries about his plans for restitution to defrauded campaign donors, Santos stated he would comply if legally required but expressed reluctance otherwise. He emphasized the opportunity to make amends, having directly appealed to Trump for clemency in a letter where he cited his loyalty to the Republican Party.
Furthermore, after being expelled from Congress, Santos has continued to monetize his notoriety through personalized video messages on the Cameo platform, where he has experienced a resurgence since his release.
Santos's tale of fabricating his personal story caught media attention as he became the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress in 2022. His claims of a prestigious educational background and extensive professional experience fell apart, revealing a much harsher reality marked by financial struggles and a less glamorous work history.
Now with a second chance, George Santos is poised to navigate his path outside prison, despite the challenges and controversies that await him.
Santos, who gained notoriety for fabricating a lavish persona as a Wall Street executive, pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft last year and began a seven-year sentence in July. His release after only eighty-four days was made possible by a clemency order from Trump, who described Santos as a “rogue” but asserted that he didn’t deserve a severe penalty and should be credited for his Republican votes.
During the CNN broadcast, Santos claimed to have learned valuable lessons during his time in prison and apologized to the constituents he misled, explaining that he was “in a chaotic ball of flame” when he perpetrated his crimes, admitting to defrauding donors and stealing identities, including those of family members.
Despite criticism from fellow Republicans over the early clemency, Santos countered by referencing other controversial pardons, particularly noting President Joe Biden’s decision to absolve his son, Hunter Biden, of gun and tax offenses.
In response to inquiries about his plans for restitution to defrauded campaign donors, Santos stated he would comply if legally required but expressed reluctance otherwise. He emphasized the opportunity to make amends, having directly appealed to Trump for clemency in a letter where he cited his loyalty to the Republican Party.
Furthermore, after being expelled from Congress, Santos has continued to monetize his notoriety through personalized video messages on the Cameo platform, where he has experienced a resurgence since his release.
Santos's tale of fabricating his personal story caught media attention as he became the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress in 2022. His claims of a prestigious educational background and extensive professional experience fell apart, revealing a much harsher reality marked by financial struggles and a less glamorous work history.
Now with a second chance, George Santos is poised to navigate his path outside prison, despite the challenges and controversies that await him.
