TL;DR: On October 17, 2025, President Donald Trump commuted the seven-year prison sentence of former Congressman George Santos, citing “horrible mistreatment” and an “excessive” punishment. Santos was released the same night. The decision drew strong partisan reactions.
What Happened
- President Trump commuted George Santos’ 87-month prison sentence for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
- The announcement was made on Truth Social: “Therefore, I just signed a Commutation, releasing George Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY. Good luck George, have a great life.”
- Santos had served less than three months of his sentence at a New Jersey facility.
- Trump described Santos as “somewhat of a rogue” but argued his sentence was excessive.
- The commutation does not erase the conviction but ends his prison time and financial penalties.
Background on Santos
- Santos was expelled from Congress in 2023, the sixth lawmaker in U.S. history to be removed.
- He pleaded guilty in 2025 to wire fraud and identity theft, admitting to stealing identities of 11 people, including family members.
- A House ethics report accused him of misusing campaign funds for personal expenses, including luxury items and online subscriptions.
- He was originally set for release in September 2031.
Trump’s Justification
- Trump cited Santos’ solitary confinement as “horrible mistreatment.”
- He compared Santos’ case to Senator Richard Blumenthal’s past military service controversy, calling it “far worse.”
- Trump wrote: “At least Santos had the Courage, Conviction, and Intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!”
Political Context
- The decision came amid a government shutdown.
- Santos had published a “passionate plea” asking Trump for clemency.
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and other MAGA allies had pushed for his release.
- Trump has previously pardoned other Republican figures, including Michael Grimm and John Rowland.
Reactions
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA): “THANK YOU President Trump for releasing George Santos!!”
- Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY): “Santos didn’t merely lie, he stole millions... [crimes] warrant more than a three-month sentence.”
- House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY): Criticized Trump for prioritizing Santos “over the needs of the American people.”
- Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT): Called Trump’s comparison “simply untrue.”
Aftermath
- Santos was released on the evening of October 17 and picked up by his husband.
- His lawyer, Andrew Mancilla, said the defense team “applauds President Trump for doing the right thing.”
- Santos has not yet made public statements, but speculation about future media or political activity has begun.