Former U.S. Representative George Santos has had his prison sentence commuted by President Donald Trump. Trump announced the decision on his social media platform, stating that he signed the commutation order to release Santos "immediately" from federal custody. Santos, 37, had been serving a seven-year sentence for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft after pleading guilty in 2024.
Santos began his sentence in July at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fairton, New Jersey. Trump described Santos as a "rogue" figure but argued that the sentence was excessive. He claimed Santos had endured mistreatment during his incarceration, including long periods in solitary confinement. "George has been in solitary confinement for long stretches of time and, by all accounts, has been horribly mistreated," Trump said. He added, "Therefore, I just signed a Commutation, releasing George Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY. Good luck George, have a great life!"
Santos's political career was marked by controversy. After being elected in 2022, it was revealed that he had fabricated significant portions of his background, including his education and work history. A House ethics report later alleged that Santos had caused his campaign committee to file incomplete reports with the Federal Election Commission. It also accused him of using campaign funds for personal expenses, such as luxury items and cosmetic procedures.
Following the release of the ethics report, the House voted overwhelmingly to expel Santos, with a tally of 311-114. His case has drawn attention not only for the nature of his crimes but also for the circumstances surrounding his election and subsequent downfall. Santos was the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress, representing parts of Queens and Long Island. However, his tenure was cut short after less than a year in office due to the revelations about his deceptive practices.
Santos's commutation is part of a broader pattern of clemency actions by Trump, who has previously pardoned other former Republican politicians. This latest decision has reignited discussions about the justice system and the treatment of political figures within it.