Jack Smith Steps Down from the Justice Department

Jack Smith Resigns from Justice Department

Jack Smith led two investigations into Trump, but later dropped both.

Resignation Announcement

Jack Smith, the special counsel who headed two federal criminal cases against Donald Trump, has officially resigned from the Justice Department before the president-elect assumes office later this month. A court filing submitted on Saturday revealed that Mr. Smith "separated from the Department" on Friday.

Investigations Led by Jack Smith

In 2022, Mr. Smith was appointed as special counsel to oversee two Justice Department cases involving Trump. One case focused on the alleged improper hoarding of classified documents, while the other dealt with an alleged attempt to interfere in the 2020 election outcome. Despite resulting in criminal charges against Trump, both cases were closed following Trump's presidential election win.

Legal Dispute and Departure

Mr. Smith's resignation comes amidst a disagreement over the release of his report on the findings of Trump's classified documents case. His departure allows him to leave his position without facing termination by Trump or the incoming president's attorney general.

Judge's Intervention

US District Judge Aileen Cannon recently intervened in the case, temporarily preventing the release of Mr. Smith's report. This decision came after Trump's legal team and former co-defendants in the case raised concerns about the report's content and the process followed by Mr. Smith.

Legal Ramifications

Despite being sentenced to an "unconditional discharge" in a hush-money case, Trump will assume office as the first US president with a felony conviction. His legal battles have garnered significant attention, with ongoing disputes over the handling of reports and investigations.