Topline
Steve Bannon, a well-known conservative podcaster and close associate of former President Donald Trump, is set to be released from prison next week. Despite his efforts to secure an early release, federal officials have confirmed that Bannon will serve his full sentence for contempt of Congress.
Key Facts
According to a letter filed in federal court by Bannon’s attorney and obtained by CNN, Bannon’s lawyers have proposed that he be allowed to complete his 120-day sentence from home.
However, the Bureau of Prisons has stated that there is insufficient time to arrange for his transfer, therefore his release date will remain October 29th.
On July 1, the former chair of right-wing outlet Breitbart News and White House aide, who had made several unsuccessful attempts to delay his sentence, reported to prison in Danbury, Connecticut.
Forbes has contacted Bannon’s attorney for a response.
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According to Maureen Bannon, the daughter of Steve Bannon, she claimed on the show “War Room with Steve Bannon” that the government is intentionally delaying his release.
The alleged purpose behind this delay is to prevent Steve Bannon, a significant figure in the MAGA movement, from being able to use his voice and influence to support Donald J. Trump in the upcoming election on November 5th.
Bannon actively supported Trump’s assertions that the 2020 election had been stolen from him. The House subcommittee investigating the January 6 riot, which was fueled by the belief in this election theft, considered Bannon to be a close confidant of Trump.
It was alleged that Bannon had engaged in phone conversations with Trump on January 5, 2021, and had encouraged individuals to gather in Washington, D.C. on the day of the riot.
However, he refused to comply with the House’s subpoena for documents and testimony, often claiming that his communications were protected by executive privilege.
As a result, the matter was referred to the Justice Department, which ultimately charged him with contempt. While his defense team requested probation, the Justice Department sought a sentence of six months in prison and a $200,000 fine.
In October 2022, Bannon was sentenced to four months in prison, but he did not report until July due to the continuous efforts of his legal team to delay his sentence and keep him out of jail.