Disgraced former congressman George Santos has made his return to network television just days after Donald Trump announced the commutation of his prison sentence. Santos, who had been incarcerated for less than three months, appeared on CNN’s State of the Union to discuss his pardon and future plans following his release.
Addressing the public on March 10, 2024, Santos claimed that his time in prison had a humbling effect on him. He described his nearly three-month incarceration as “a great equalizer” and “very sobering.” Santos asserted that he had “no expectations” for a pardon, claiming he learned of Trump’s announcement through fellow inmates who saw it on television. His lawyer, Joseph Murray, stated that he was in “constant communication” with the Justice Department regarding Santos’ case.
Santos had been serving a sentence for participating in a credit card fraud scheme that involved inflating his campaign finances and misusing funds for personal expenses. He criticized the original seven-year sentence as “disproportionate” and expressed support for a pardon for his former staff member, Sam Miele, who was sentenced to one year in prison for his involvement in the scheme.
On the topic of restitution, Santos indicated he would not be paying the $370,000 owed to his victims, given that the commutation removed that obligation. “If it’s required of me by the law, yes; if it’s not, then no,” he stated, emphasizing that he would comply with legal requirements.
Santos has expressed a desire to engage in prison reform efforts now that he is free. He mentioned his ambition to work on initiatives that would help individuals rebuild their lives after incarceration, asserting that he communicated this interest to Trump.
In the interview, Santos also offered an apology to his constituents, supporters, and former colleagues, stating he has no plans to run for office in the next decade. This statement comes as some members of his own party have openly criticized his early release.
Republican Representative Nick LaLota of New York remarked that Santos’ actions amounted to more than just lying, emphasizing that he “stole millions” and defrauded an election. LaLota called for Santos to demonstrate genuine remorse and make restitution. Similarly, Representative Andrew Garbarino expressed that the time Santos spent in prison was inadequate, highlighting that he “has shown no remorse.”
In a statement to the New York Times, Representative Nicole Malliotakis labeled Santos as “a convicted con artist,” voicing her disagreement with the commutation. During her appearance on CNN, Malliotakis noted that while she felt Santos’ sentence was too lengthy, the time served was insufficient.
When confronted with the criticisms from LaLota and Garbarino, Santos responded that they are entitled to their opinions but remains focused on his future. “I’ve learned a great deal and a very large slice of humble pie,” he reflected.
Despite his claims of humility, Santos quickly returned to his entrepreneurial ventures, offering personalized video messages on Cameo for $300 each. He recorded one of these videos shortly after his CNN appearance, illustrating a desire to capitalize on his newfound freedom.
Santos’ re-emergence on television and his comments regarding his past actions highlight the complex dynamics of public opinion surrounding his case, particularly in light of his controversial pardon.