Key Prosecutor Against Trump Resigns and Leaves US: Details and Analysis
Jack Smith, the U.S. Special Counsel who led prosecutions against former President Donald Trump, has resigned from the Department of Justice (DOJ). Smith, appointed in November 2022, oversaw investigations into Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and mishandling of classified documents.
His resignation follows the dismissal or pausing of these cases due to legal and procedural barriers, including a ruling that former presidents have immunity from prosecution for official acts. Additionally, following Trump’s election victory over Kamala Harris, Smith dropped the cases citing DOJ rules against prosecuting sitting presidents.
Smith, a former war crimes prosecutor, submitted his resignation effective January 10, 2025, after concluding his final confidential report.
An appeals court recently ruled that the DOJ can release Smith’s investigative report on Trump’s attempts to subvert the 2020 election, though portions related to classified documents will remain confidential due to ongoing legal proceedings against Trump’s former co-defendants.
Trump, who has denied all accusations, criticized Smith, referring to him as “deranged” and expressing his intent to dismiss Smith quickly.
The president-elect has not commented on Smith’s resignation but shared an image on Truth Social with a message indicating his continued political focus.
Smith’s resignation marks the end of the criminal cases against Trump, which contributed to his political resurgence. His work on these high-profile cases was conducted under considerable time and legal constraints.
There is no credible information indicating that Smith has fled the United States. Such claims appear to be unfounded and lack substantiation.
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