Sam Bankman-Fried, the former CEO of FTX, granted a candid interview on his 33rd birthday, offering insights into his prison life and views on U.S. cryptocurrency regulation.
Speaking with Tucker Carlson on March 6, 2025, Bankman-Fried addressed his 25-year sentence for misappropriating customer funds and commented on his political ties, which sparked significant debate following FTX’s collapse.
The former billionaire, known for his substantial contributions to both Democratic and Republican parties, revealed he had a closer relationship with Republicans in Washington, D.C., than widely perceived, despite his strong connections to Democrats.
Bankman-Fried denied being a criminal, suggesting that the charges against his former colleague, Ryan Salame, were politically motivated due to Salame’s Republican affiliations.
Currently incarcerated at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, Bankman-Fried described his daily routine, which primarily involves eating rice and beans, and noted he has had no contact with former FTX employees. He expressed regret over the plight of associates who cooperated with prosecutors to avoid harsher sentences.
Meanwhile, his legal team has filed an appeal against his conviction, while reports suggest his parents are lobbying for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump.
FTX’s bankruptcy in late 2022 led to multiple prison sentences for key figures involved in the scandal. As Bankman-Fried awaits the outcome of his appeal, legal proceedings surrounding the cryptocurrency exchange continue.
[Crypto Times]