Trump Prosecutor Jack Smith to Testify Publicly Before House Committee

Former special counsel Jack Smith prepares to testify publicly before the House Judiciary Committee on his investigations into Donald Trump.

Former special counsel Jack Smith is set to testify publicly before a House committee, following months of political tension surrounding his now-dismissed investigations into President Donald Trump. The appearance comes after Smith previously gave private testimony defending his actions and denying allegations of political bias.

Smith Defends His Investigations

During a closed-door deposition in December, Smith told lawmakers that his decisions to prosecute Trump were based solely on the evidence, not politics. He said the foundation of the cases rested entirely on Trump’s actions and insisted he would make the same prosecutorial decision regardless of party affiliation.

Smith emphasized that his investigations met the highest legal standard, stating that his team gathered proof “beyond a reasonable doubt” that Trump engaged in criminal conduct related to the 2020 election and the handling of classified documents.

Indictments Dropped After Trump’s Election Victory

Smith and his team secured indictments against Trump in 2023, accusing him of illegally retaining classified documents after leaving office and attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election. However, both cases were dropped after Trump won the 2024 election, in accordance with a Justice Department policy that prohibits prosecuting a sitting president.

Despite dismissing the cases, Smith maintained that the evidence remained strong and supported the original charges.

Claims About January 6 and Classified Documents

In his testimony, Smith asserted that Trump was responsible for the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, saying the events were foreseeable and exploited by the former president. He also described Trump’s handling of classified documents as reckless, alleging that sensitive materials were stored in unsecured locations at Trump’s Florida residence, including a bathroom and a ballroom.

Smith said the evidence showed Trump willfully retained highly classified documents after leaving office.

Political Pushback and Republican Criticism

Republican lawmakers have strongly criticized Smith’s investigations, accusing him of political motivation and overreach. Trump himself has repeatedly attacked Smith, using inflammatory language to describe the former special counsel.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan has raised concerns about Smith’s investigative tactics, including the collection of phone records from lawmakers and conservative groups during the probes. Smith denied any improper political intent, stating that the investigations followed standard legal procedures.

Why the Public Testimony Matters

Smith’s upcoming public testimony follows his earlier request for an open hearing, after being subpoenaed for a closed-door deposition by House Republicans. The committee has already released video footage and a lengthy transcript of that private testimony.

The public hearing is expected to intensify political debate over the investigations and could shape public perception of the Justice Department’s actions during a deeply polarizing period in American politics.