House Speaker Mike Johnson is defending President Trump’s decision to grant former Rep. George Santos clemency after he was sentenced to prison for wire fraud and identity theft.
“We believe in redemption,” Mr. Johnson said Sunday on ABC’s “This Week.” “This is a personal belief of mine, and you know, I hope Mr. Santos makes the most of his second chance.”
Mr. Trump announced Friday he was commuting the sentence of Santos, who in July started serving an 87-month sentence after he pleaded guilty to the charges.
“George Santos was somewhat of a ‘rogue,’ but there are many rogues throughout our Country that aren’t forced to serve seven years in prison,” Mr. Trump posted Friday on Truth Social.
Mr. Santos had appealed to the president.
Mr. Trump said Mr. Santos had the courage and conviction to always vote Republican.
M. Trump’s announcement frustrated members of both parties. Democrats have since pointed out that Mr. Trump has given get out of jail free cards to at least 10 former GOP lawmakers who were convicted of crimes.
Mr. Johnson defended Mr. Trump’s decision.
“At least he’s open and transparent about it,” Mr. Johnson said. “Joe Biden never told us anything.”
Alluding to former President Joseph R. Biden’s declining mental fitness, Mr. Johnson said it is debatable whether Mr. Biden knew who he was pardoning.
