Jack Smith defends Trump investigations in heated Capitol Hill hearing
Former special counsel Jack Smith forcefully defended his past investigations into Donald Trump during a sometimes combative hearing on Capitol Hill, pushing back against Republican accusations that the probes were politically motivated.
(NBC)- Former special counsel Jack Smith forcefully defended his past investigations into Donald Trump during a sometimes combative hearing on Capitol Hill, pushing back against Republican accusations that the probes were politically motivated.
“Our investigation developed proof beyond a reasonable doubt that President Trump engaged in criminal activity,” Smith told lawmakers.
Smith previously oversaw two federal cases involving Trump — one focused on the handling of classified documents and another on alleged interference in the 2020 election results. Both cases were later scrapped before Trump reentered the White House, though Republican criticism of the investigations has continued.
Oversight Committee Chairman Jim Jordan accused Smith of unfairly targeting Trump for political reasons.
“It was always about politics and to get President Trump, they were willing to do just about anything,” Jordan said.
Democrats rejected that claim, arguing the investigations were rooted in the rule of law.
Jamie Raskin said the issue was about accountability, not partisanship.
“For us, it’s all about the rule of law and who’s going to stand by the rule of law and who’s going to oppose it,” Raskin said.
On social media, President Trump called Smith “deranged” and suggested the attorney general should scrutinize his actions. During the hearing, Becca Balint asked Smith whether he believed Trump’s Justice Department would seek to indict him.
“I believe they will do everything in their power to do that because they’ve been ordered to by the president,” Smith responded, adding, “I will not be intimidated.”
Republicans also accused Smith of abusing his authority by seeking phone records belonging to GOP lawmakers.
Chip Roy called the move “an egregious abuse of power.”
Smith denied those allegations, saying the records — which did not include the content of calls — were legally obtained and necessary to determine who the president was in contact with amid allegations he sought to delay the January 6 election certification.
“My office didn’t spy on anyone,” Smith said.
Police officers who were injured while defending the U.S. Capitol during the January 6 attack were present at the hearing and appeared visibly frustrated throughout the proceedings.
