Former special counsel Jack Smith’s upcoming appearance on Capitol Hill is poised to be a significant moment in the ongoing investigation of his actions regarding President Donald Trump. This Wednesday, House lawmakers will question Smith in a closed-door session as part of the House Judiciary Committee’s inquiries into his special counsel work.
Smith’s investigations have drawn heavy criticism, particularly from Republicans. They accuse him of aggressively pursuing Trump, especially over his attempts to contest the 2020 election results and his handling of classified documents. Specific concerns have been raised regarding Smith’s attempts to impose gag orders against the former president during his campaign, fast-track court proceedings, and subpoena the phone data of numerous Trump affiliates, including members of Congress.
Smith, for his part, intends to counter what he perceives as misinterpretations of his actions, particularly focusing on the subpoenas issued in connection with his investigations. However, he has confirmed he will refrain from answering questions that touch upon matters covered by grand jury secrecy or material sealed by Judge Aileen Cannon in the classified documents case.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan is expected to prioritize the release of a transcript from Smith’s deposition. This process, however, could prove lengthy due to the requisite approval from both parties involved or a committee vote on the matter. Smith’s legal team will also have to review the transcript before it’s made public.
Despite previously offering to testify in a public format, Smith has been subpoenaed for this private deposition. Chairman Jordan explained this format would allow lawmakers more time to question him comprehensively. Trump has voiced support for a public hearing, describing Smith as a “sick man” who should be compelled to testify openly, arguing that it would force Smith into a challenging position regarding accountability.
Jordan has long criticized Smith’s work, labeling it a “weaponization” of prosecutorial power. He plans to interrogate Smith regarding the extensive subpoenas served to Republican Senators and House Members who were directly connected to Trump during the January 6th riot. The issuance of these subpoenas has been denounced by the targeted lawmakers as a constitutional infringement, whereas Smith has maintained that they are appropriately tailored and justified.
Throughout his investigations, Smith encountered formidable resistance, ultimately dismissing charges after Trump secured victory in the 2024 election, adhering to a Department of Justice policy against prosecuting individuals holding presidential office. Trump continues to assert his innocence and has aggressively criticized Smith, branding him as “deranged” and calling for his imprisonment.
The deposition is scheduled to commence at 10 a.m., and while it promises to unfold behind closed doors, its implications for both Smith and Trump’s political landscape warrant careful attention. With each party poised to shape the narrative surrounding this high-profile testimony, all eyes will be on the developments that emerge from this critical session.
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