George Santos speaks out after being released from New Jersey prison
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Former Congressman George Santos is home after spending nearly three months in prison serving a seven-year sentence at a federal prison in New Jersey after pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Santos' attorney said he was not interested in giving an interview, however, he did post a long message on X, thanking President Trump for his 'kindness, humility and generosity.'
"Yesterday I was given something I never thought I'd have again: a true second chance at life," Santos said.
He also said 'I'm far from perfect, I've made mistakes, I've stumbled, I carry shame, I carry purpose. My goal now is to turn my past into something meaningful, to help create a justice system that truly believes in rehabilitation."
Santos' short-lived political life resembled that of a three-ring circus. He pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft. He admitted he lied to Congress and defrauded donors.
Seven years was the sentence in federal prison, but on Friday night Santos was out, barely serving three months after President Trump commuted his sentence.
"President Trump reminded me that in this country we love so much, no mistake, no hardship, and no fall from grace can take away the possibility of renewal," Santos wrote on X.
The commutation came days after Santos wrote an open letter to Trump, who in return called Santos 'somewhat of a rogue.' He also said he had the 'courage, conviction and intelligence' to always vote Republican.
It was a slap in the face to some constituents in Santos' former district.
"Many of the people who he defrauded talking about the donors in our district, they're embarrassed that they gave him money. But have they, any of them been made whole?" said Jody Kass Finkel.
"I hold no anger toward anyone, not even my critics. I move forward with humility, with gratitude, and with peace in my heart," Santos wrote.
Santos says he is ready to work on prison reform now after being 'degraded' behind bars. He won't be able to hold office again. Trump did not pardon him, but rather cleared his prison sentence and freed him from having to pay any restitution or fines.
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