Santos Defends Clemency, Draws Controversy with Jesus Analogy

Former Congressman George Santos defended President Donald Trump following the president’s decision to grant him clemency during an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash on September 24, 2023. Santos, who was sentenced to more than seven years in prison for wire fraud, expressed gratitude for the commutation of his sentence, which occurred earlier that week.

During the segment on “State of the Union,” Bash inquired whether Santos believed he received “favorable treatment” due to his loyalty to Trump. Santos dismissed the question, asserting that he is not concerned with the criticism from his detractors, particularly those on the left. He stated, “Pardon me if I’m not paying too much attention to the pearl-clutching of the outrage of my critics.”

Santos emphasized the presidential power to grant clemency, noting that it is a prerogative extended at the president’s discretion. He remarked, “It is known that presidents have the power of the pardon and the clemency, which are plenary.”

In a striking comparison, Santos likened himself to Jesus Christ, suggesting that critics would find fault regardless of the circumstances. “I’m pretty confident if President Trump had pardoned Jesus Christ off the cross, he would have had critics,” he remarked, highlighting the polarized nature of political discourse in the United States. This was not the first time Santos invoked religious imagery; he previously referenced Jesus in a post on social media, celebrating his release and expressing a sense of redemption.

In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Santos declared, “Yesterday, I was given something I never thought I’d have again: a true second chance at life.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to change and grow, thanking Jesus for his unwavering support. “I want to thank our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for never abandoning me. I’m far from perfect. I’ve made mistakes, I’ve stumbled, but I never lost faith in Him.”

Bash, upon hearing Santos’ comparison, chose not to engage further with the analogy, stating, “I’m going to skip over that analogy.”

Santos’ comments have sparked considerable debate, reflecting the deep divisions in American politics. His assertions about clemency and the nature of criticism from the left are likely to fuel ongoing discussions about the intersection of politics and personal redemption. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Santos remains a polarizing figure, embodying the complexities and challenges of political loyalty and accountability.