

Episode 4: The Donor
Aug 28, 2024
Cathy Soref, a notable GOP donor and former supporter of George Santos, reveals her insights into her disillusionment with Santos amid his legal troubles. She discusses her initial motivations for supporting him and the emotional turmoil following his indictments. The conversation highlights the implications of fraudulent contributions and the urgent need for better identity protection in the political landscape. Soref reflects on how her trust was undermined, illustrating the complexities of political backing and accountability.
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First Impressions
- Cathy Soreff, a Republican donor, met George Santos at a Long Island fundraiser and was impressed by him.
- Santos portrayed himself as wealthy, civic-minded, and a cancer survivor, gaining Soreff's support.
Building the Lie
- Despite developing a friendship with Santos, Soreff was unaware of his deceitful activities.
- Santos further fabricated stories about his mother's Harvard education and his own cancer survival to impress Soreff.
Fundraiser at the Villa Gorilla
- Soreff hosted a fundraiser for Santos at her home, the Villa Gorilla, inviting her network of contacts.
- Santos charmed the guests, raising a substantial amount of money, but Soreff later felt responsible for exposing her friends to his fraud.