In a dramatic twist to America’s political saga, Special Counsel Jack Smith—the legal architect behind two federal cases against Donald Trump—officially resigned Friday, just days before the Republican president-elect’s return to the White House. The move marks a stunning shift in Trump’s legal battles as he prepares to reclaim power.
Smith’s exit followed the dismissal of high-profile charges against Trump, including accusations of hoarding classified documents and attempting to overturn the 2020 election. The cases collapsed after Supreme Court rulings granted broad immunity to former presidents for official acts, and a Trump-appointed Florida judge tossed one case entirely.
In court filings, Smith’s team confirmed his resignation and requested the release of his final confidential report. But with Trump’s Inauguration Day looming, critics say Smith’s departure underscores the fading prospects of holding the incoming president accountable.
Trump, who once labeled Smith 'deranged,' has vowed to fire him immediately upon taking office. The resignation also comes after Trump’s November victory over Kamala Harris, which triggered a DOJ rule barring prosecution of sitting presidents. Legal experts call it a 'strategic retreat' but warn of broader implications for accountability.
As Trump faces three other criminal cases—including Georgia election interference charges and New York hush-money allegations—Smith’s exit leaves a gaping hole in efforts to challenge presidential power. Will 2024 bring closure or chaos?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com