Sam Bankman-Fried changes political tactics in hopes of Trump's amnesty

Founder of the failed crypto platform FTX, Sam Bankman-Fried, does not lose hope for early release. Serving a 25-year sentence for fraud and illegal appropriation of client assets, he is radically revising his political stance. Previously, Bankman-Fried actively supported the Democratic Party, but now he is shifting his focus toward Donald Trump — clearly counting on a presidential pardon.

Betting on Trump: Strategy or Desperation?

The transformation of Sam Bankman-Fried’s position raises inevitable questions. Previously, the major financier invested in Biden’s political campaigns, and now he openly criticizes the administration. Market analysts at Polymarket are already making predictions: a pardon from the sitting president could occur within the first 100 days of his second term.

The parents of the former magnate insist that Trump should consider Sam Bankman-Fried’s case as politically motivated persecution. There is a precedent — just recall the fate of Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht, whom the president also considered for a pardon.

What does Bankman-Fried himself say about the FTX collapse?

From a prison cell, the crypto magnate gave an interview to the New York Sun, making a shocking claim: FTX allegedly was never truly bankrupt. According to him, liquidity would have been enough to fully compensate clients’ losses by November 2022.

Bankman-Fried blames external creditors and legal advisors. He directly points to the firm Sullivan & Cromwell, accusing it of mismanagement of the process and delaying settlements. However, these statements come amid the fact that FTX’s estate is preparing to distribute $11 billion according to the liquidation plan. Such statements may be perceived as an attempt to shift responsibility.

Is the crypto market ready to forgive Bankman-Fried?

Even if Trump grants amnesty and Sam Bankman-Fried leaves prison, another question will arise for the crypto community: will the industry restore trust in the disgraced entrepreneur? History shows that such scandals leave deep scars on reputation.

Currently, the former FTX leader remains behind bars, but his active work on public image indicates that he is not willing to give up. We can only wait for Trump’s decision — whether he will give Bankman-Fried a second chance in the crypto industry.