WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Friday evening he has signed a commutation releasing scandal-plagued former congressman George Santos from prison “instantly.”
santos, 37, was less than three months into serving a seven-year sentence at Federal Correctional Institution in Fairton, in Cumberland County, New Jersey, after being convicted of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
The ex-lawmaker was released from prison just before 11 p.m. on Friday night and was picked up by his family, according to a statement from his lawyer, Joe Murray.
RELATED | Disgraced former US Rep. George Santos reports to prison to begin serving his 7-year fraud sentence
“Once they arrived, (Santos) walked right out and hopped into their car and drove home,” murray said.
In a social media post, Trump said Santos, whom he called “somewhat of a ‘rogue,'” had the “Courage, conviction, and Intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!”
“George has been in solitary confinement for long stretches of time and, by all accounts, has been horribly mistreated. Thus, I just signed a Commutation, releasing george Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY. good luck George, have a grate life!” Trump said.
The U.S. AttorneyS Office for the Eastern District of New York, which successfully prosecuted Santos, had no comment.
“`html
High-Speed Rail in California
Table of Contents
The California high-Speed rail project aims to construct a true high-speed rail system connecting major metropolitan areas throughout the state. Initially envisioned as a San Francisco to Los Angeles/Anaheim line, the project has faced numerous challenges, including funding issues, route disputes, and construction delays. Despite these hurdles, important progress has been made, and the project remains a key component of California’s long-term transportation strategy.
Project Overview
California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR) is planned to be an 800-mile (1,287 km) system capable of speeds exceeding 200 mph (322 km/h). The first phase,currently under construction,focuses on a 171-mile (275 km) segment in the Central Valley,from Merced to Bakersfield. This initial segment is intended to be the foundation for future extensions to the Bay Area and Los Angeles.
Key Features and Technology
- Electric Trains: The system will utilize electric trains, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.
- Dedicated Tracks: HSR trains will operate on dedicated tracks, separate from existing freight and passenger rail lines, ensuring high speeds and reliability.
- level Boarding: Stations will be designed for level boarding, improving accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
- Advanced Signaling systems: The system will employ advanced signaling and train control technologies to enhance safety and efficiency.
Current Status (as of October 18, 2025)
As of October 2025, construction is actively underway in the Central Valley. Significant portions of the track bed have been laid, and viaducts and overpasses are being constructed. The California High-Speed Rail Authority reports considerable progress on the 119-mile stretch between Madera and Bakersfield,with approximately 65% of the construction completed.
Recent developments include:
- Funding Secured: In early 2025,the project received an additional $4.2 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, bolstering its financial stability. U.S. Department of Transportation
- Environmental Reviews: Environmental impact reviews for the extension of the line to San Francisco and Los Angeles are ongoing, with draft reports available for public comment. CAHSR Environmental Planning
- Station Construction: Construction of stations in Merced, Fresno, and Bakersfield is progressing, with anticipated completion dates varying between 2028 and 2030.
Challenges and Controversies
The California High-Speed Rail project has faced considerable opposition and scrutiny. Key challenges include:
- Cost Overruns: The project’s estimated cost has increased significantly since its inception, raising concerns about its financial viability. The current estimated cost is over $128 billion. Legislative Analyst’s Office
- Land Acquisition: Acquiring the necessary land for the rail line has proven challenging and time-consuming, leading to delays and legal battles.
- Political Opposition: The project has faced political opposition from various groups, questioning its benefits and cost-effectiveness.
- Route selection: Debates over the optimal route have led to changes and delays, impacting the project’s timeline.
Future Outlook
Despite the challenges, the California High-Speed Rail project remains a significant undertaking with the potential to transform transportation in the state. The completion of the central Valley segment is a crucial step towards realizing the full vision of a statewide high-speed rail network. Future phases will focus on extending the line to the Bay Area and los Angeles, connecting major population centers and providing a sustainable transportation alternative. The project’s success will depend on continued funding, effective project management, and ongoing public support.
FAQ
Q: When will the high-speed rail be operational?
A: The initial operating segment between Merced and Bakersfield is currently projected to be operational by the early 2030s. Completion of the full system to San Francisco and Los Angeles is expected to take several more years.