Steve Bannon, the former advisor to President Trump, recently shared his thoughts on how George Santos, the disgraced ex-GOP congressman, should prepare for his impending prison term.
Santos was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for wire fraud and identity theft, having been convicted of defrauding donors, fabricating his résumé, and misusing campaign funds. He is also required to pay nearly $374,000 in fines and restitution.
In a podcast episode with former Congressman Matt Gaetz, Bannon advised Santos to “stop whining” about his situation.
Santos, who represented New York’s 3rd District before being expelled from Congress in December 2023, has expressed significant anxiety about his upcoming incarceration.
In various interviews, including a notably emotional appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored, he admitted to feeling terrified about prison, even appealing to Trump for a pardon.
Bannon, who himself served four months in prison and was released in October, reflected on the realities of life behind bars.
During the podcast, Gaetz humorously suggested that Bannon might have become a “mafioso style cell block leader” during his time in prison.
Bannon, however, cautioned against such a characterization, noting that it would entail crossing paths with individuals who genuinely embody that lifestyle.
“What you have to do, and this is my advice to George Santos, is to stop whining,” Bannon stated.
He emphasized the importance of self-awareness and focus, advising Santos to maintain a clear head in the violent environment of prison. “You have to be totally, completely focused every second of the day because these places are incredibly violent,” he added.
As Santos prepares for his sentence, the political ramifications of his actions continue to reverberate.
His conviction has intensified discussions about ethics and accountability within the Republican Party, particularly as it pertains to candidates’ conduct and the integrity of political campaigning.
Santos’s legal troubles began to unfold publicly in late 2022 when reports surfaced about discrepancies in his background and financial dealings.
His subsequent rise to notoriety included a series of fabrications about his education and work history, culminating in his eventual downfall.
The fallout from his actions has not only affected his political career but has also raised questions about the broader implications for trust in elected officials.
As Santos navigates this challenging chapter, Bannon’s blunt advice underscores the harsh realities awaiting him.
The path ahead will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges, both personally and politically, as he confronts the consequences of his actions in a very different environment.
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