Jack Smith Seeks Public Testimony in Trump Inquiry

Former special counsel Jack Smith is looking to testify publicly as the investigation into former President Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents continues.

In a recent letter responding to Rep. Jim Jordan’s request for testimony, Smith provided a statement Thursday to both Jordan and Sen. Charles E. Grassley. The letter was signed by attorneys Lanny A. Breuer and Peter Kosky.

“Given the many misconceptions surrounding Mr. Smith’s investigation into President Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents and his role in attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election, Mr. Smith respectfully requests the opportunity to testify before the House and Senate Judiciary Committees in public hearings,” the letter said.

“During the investigation of President Trump, Mr. Smith faithfully adhered to established legal standards and Department of Justice guidelines, maintaining a consistent approach throughout his career as a dedicated public servant.”

Smith’s legal team asked for assurances from the U.S. Department of Justice that his testimony would not lead to repercussions. This concern arises because some findings from the special investigation, particularly Volume 2 of Smith’s final report, are still sealed.

His lawyers also requested access to files from his time as special prosecutor to ensure they can provide “complete and accurate answers” to questions posed to them.

They pointed out in their letter that “to fully and accurately answer your questions, Mr. Smith needs access to the Special Counsel’s files, which he no longer has the ability to access.”

Republican lawmakers have accused Smith of misconduct in his supervisory role, but he maintains that he followed proper protocols set by the courts and the Justice Department.

In a recent interview, Smith challenged the notion that the criminal case against Trump is politically motivated, calling the idea “absolutely ridiculous” and contrary to his experience as a prosecutor.

At that time, then-Attorney General Merrick Garland declined to unseal the second volume of Smith’s final report, citing ongoing criminal investigations involving two of Trump’s co-defendants, aide Walt Nauta and former Mar-a-Lago manager Carlos de Oliveira. Both of those lawsuits were dismissed after Trump resumed office.

Grassley admitted he would need to review relevant records before initiating an investigation.

“Jack Smith certainly has a lot to answer for, but first we need Congress to have all the facts at its disposal,” Grassley stated. “A hearing should occur after the foundations of the investigation are firmly established. To that end, I am actively working with the Department of Justice and the FBI to gather all the relevant records that Mr. Smith needed to know over the years.”

Since Trump was elected to a second term in November, all cases arising from Smith’s investigation have been closed.