A significant federal inquiry has been launched into former Special Counsel Jack Smith, the prosecutor who pursued two high-profile criminal cases against then-candidate Donald Trump. The independent Office of Special Counsel (OSC) has confirmed it is actively investigating allegations of illegal political activity by Smith, raising questions about the motivations and conduct behind prominent legal proceedings. This development centers on claims that Smith’s actions may have violated federal statutes designed to ensure impartiality among government employees.
The investigation stems from contentions that Smith’s inquiries into Donald Trump exhibited partisan political activity, potentially contravening the Hatch Act. This federal law specifically prohibits certain public officials from engaging in political actions while performing their duties, aiming to prevent the use of official power for electoral gain. The OSC’s confirmation on Saturday signals a formal review into the validity of these serious claims.
Jack Smith was appointed Special Counsel in November 2022, a role distinct from the Office of Special Counsel now probing his conduct. He initiated two significant cases against Donald Trump in 2023, well before the 2024 presidential election. These indictments, according to Smith and his team, were based on clear violations of established federal law, emphasizing their legal, rather than political, foundation.
One of the primary points of contention revolves around the basis for alleging that Smith’s investigations were politically motivated or constituted a breach of the Hatch Act. Critics, including certain prominent political figures, have voiced concerns, suggesting his actions were designed to benefit the opposing political party. However, specific evidence supporting these allegations remains under scrutiny.
Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas, publicly urged the Office of Special Counsel to examine Smith’s activities. Cotton’s allegations included claims that Smith’s conduct was intended to aid then-President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, both Democrats, in the political landscape. This public pressure contributed to the formal commencement of the investigation.
It is noteworthy that while Smith’s actions are under the microscope, there has been no immediate indication that the same Office of Special Counsel has initiated similar investigations into other Justice Department special counsels. This includes those appointed to investigate President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, raising questions about potential selective scrutiny within federal oversight bodies.
The White House has maintained a neutral stance, offering no immediate comment on the investigation into Smith, which was initially brought to light by The New York Post. The Office of Special Counsel itself has faced its own internal challenges, experiencing significant leadership changes and tumult over the past year, which adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing inquiry.
