Trump just sent a sinister 'signal' to every Republican: ex-Tea Party lawmaker

A former Tea Party congressman unloaded on President Donald Trump late Friday after Trump broke the news he was freeing disgraced former Rep. George Santos (R-NY) from prison.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform to announce he was commuting the seven-year prison sentence for Santos, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Trump said Santos would be released from prison immediately, citing what he described as harsh treatment and extended solitary confinement.

Former Rep. Joe Walsh (R-IL) told CNN anchor Anderson Cooper the president just made a mockery of the criminal justice system.

"This is just the latest instance of Trump making an utter joke of justice in this country," said Walsh.

The staunch Trump critic warned Trump just broadcast a dark message.

"If you're a friend of Trump's, if you're a Republican — I mean, think about what Trump said in his post tonight. What did he say about Santos? He had the courage to vote Republican. What does that have to do with any crimes he committed or anything he pled guilty to? But that's Trump sending a signal to every Republican out there, every friend of Trump. This is what the 10th former republican member that he's pardoned or commuted the sentence of? He has utterly politicized justice in this country and made it clear, send a really overt signal that if you're a friend of his man, come on, knock on my door. I'll be there for you," Walsh said.