Former Congressman George Santos defended President Donald Trump’s decision to grant him clemency during an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash on July 30, 2023. Santos, who was sentenced to more than seven years in prison for wire fraud, had his sentence commuted by Trump earlier this week. In the interview, Santos faced questions regarding whether he received “favorable treatment” as a “loyal ally” to the president.
Santos responded sharply to Bash’s inquiry, dismissing the criticisms he has received. “Pardon me if I’m not paying too much attention to the pearl-clutching of the outrage of my critics and of the people, predominantly on the left,” he stated. He emphasized that the powers of pardon and clemency are granted to presidents and can be exercised at their discretion.
Comparison to Jesus Christ Draws Attention
During the interview, Santos drew a controversial parallel between himself and Jesus Christ, suggesting that critics of Trump would find fault regardless of the situation. “People are going to like me. People are gonna hate me. It doesn’t matter whoever gets clemency in the future,” he said. He added, “I’m pretty confident if President Trump had pardoned Jesus Christ off the cross, he would have had critics. So that’s just the reality of our country.”
This is not the first time Santos has invoked religious imagery in relation to his situation. Following his clemency, he took to social media to express gratitude, stating, “Yesterday, I was given something I never thought I’d have again: a true second chance at life.” He thanked Jesus Christ for his support throughout his struggles, asserting that he has made mistakes but has maintained his faith.
Bash chose not to engage with Santos’ comparison during the interview, stating, “I’m going to skip over that analogy.”
Santos’ remarks have reignited discussions about his controversial political career and the implications of clemency in the current political landscape. As he steps back into the public eye, his comments continue to provoke varying reactions among the electorate and political commentators alike.
