Trump ally Steve Bannon released from prison, returns to political arena

Steve Bannon, a long-time ally of former President Donald Trump, was released early Tuesday after completing a four-month prison sentence for defying a subpoena in the congressional investigation into the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. 

Bannon had been incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Danbury, Connecticut, following his conviction for contempt of Congress last year. The 70-year-old had refused to sit for a deposition or hand over documents to the January 6 House Committee. 

Following his release, Bannon returned to his podcast and online show, pledging continued support for Trump’s 2024 presidential bid and openly criticising the Democrats, specifically former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whom he accused of orchestrating his conviction to silence him. 

“The four months in federal prison not only didn’t break me—it empowered me. I am more energised and more focused than I’ve ever been,” Bannon stated.

In a press statement in Manhattan, Bannon declared himself a “political prisoner,” framing his time in prison as a stand against US Attorney General Merrick Garland and the Department of Justice, which he described as “corrupt.”

Bannon initially sought to delay his prison term, but the US Supreme Court rejected his appeal, and he began serving his sentence on July 1. 

His legal team contended that he was protected by executive privilege, though prosecutors noted Trump had never formally invoked this in relation to the committee, especially given that Bannon had not been affiliated with the White House for years.

Bannon’s challenges continue beyond his sentence. In May, a federal appeals panel upheld his contempt convictions, which he is now appealing to a full court. 

Additionally, he faces separate criminal charges in New York, where prosecutors allege he defrauded donors in a campaign to privately fund a US-Mexico border wall. Bannon has pleaded not guilty to charges including money laundering, conspiracy, and fraud, with a trial expected in December.

With a presidential election just days away, Bannon’s re-emergence highlights his enduring influence within Trump’s sphere, as he mobilises to support the former president’s campaign.