Sam Bankman-Fried Speaks from Prison: Slams Regulators, Reveals Political Donations, and Talks Life Behind Bars

The crypto world was rocked after Sam Bankman-Fried, the disgraced FTX founder, broke his silence from prison. In a rare interview, he shared controversial views on regulators, the Biden administration, and the political dynamics surrounding his prosecution.

Speaking from Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, Bankman-Fried addressed his legal battle, the collapse of FTX, and his daily life in prison.

Regulators Under Fire: SBF Takes Aim at the SEC and Biden Administration

Bankman-Fried did not hold back in criticizing U.S. regulators, specifically the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under former Chair Gary Gensler. He described the early years of the Biden administration as “shocking” and slammed the SEC’s approach to crypto regulation as “a nightmare.”

The former FTX CEO suggested that political shifts played a role in his prosecution. He revealed that in late 2022, he had secretly donated to Republican candidates after becoming frustrated with how financial regulations were being handled. By the time FTX collapsed, he claimed that his donations to Republicans had reached the same level as those given to Democrats.

FTX Collapse and Legal Battle: SBF Defends His Actions

While acknowledging that FTX’s downfall was a “colossal disaster,” Bankman-Fried maintained that he does not see himself as a criminal. He suggested that his prosecution was more about public perception than intentional wrongdoing, arguing that the Department of Justice (DOJ) viewed his case through a political lens.

He also admitted to struggling with communication during the FTX collapse, stating that he got too caught up in minor details instead of clearly explaining the bigger picture.

Inside Prison: Chess, Dystopian Realities, and Trading Muffins

Offering a rare glimpse into life behind bars, Bankman-Fried described Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center as “kind of dystopian.” He spends his time reading novels and playing chess to stay occupied.

In a surprising twist, he mentioned that fellow inmate Sean “Diddy” Combs has been “kind” to other prisoners. Additionally, in a nod to the prison economy, SBF revealed that he uses pre-wrapped muffins as currency to barter for goods.

Final Thoughts: SBF Challenges the Narrative

Despite his legal troubles, Bankman-Fried remains vocal about the circumstances that led to his downfall. While admitting to mistakes, he insists that his prosecution was politically driven rather than rooted in clear criminal intent. His outspoken stance continues to fuel debate about the intersection of crypto, regulation, and political influence.