NEW YORK -- Former New York Congressman George Santos is speaking out in his first interview after being released from prison.

Santos joined CNN anchor Dana Bash on "State of the Union" on Sunday following his release from a New Jersey federal prison.

"Pardon me if I'm not paying too much attention to the pearl clutching of the outrage of my critics and of the people predominantly on the left who are going to go out there and try to make a big deal out of something like this," Santos said. "It is known that presidents have the power of the pardon and clemency, which are plenary, and they're extended at their will."

Meanwhile, Santos is expected to attend mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral on Sunday morning.

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