Jack Smith Resigns from Justice Department Amid Controversy Over Trump Prosecutions

Special Counsel Jack Smith has officially resigned from the Justice Department, marking an end to his oversight of two major investigations into Donald Trump's alleged misconduct, both of which resulted in criminal charges.

Jack Smith, the special counsel tasked with leading two significant federal investigations involving Donald Trump, has announced his resignation from the Justice Department, effective Friday. The unexpected departure comes just ahead of the inauguration of the incoming president-elect, who will take office later this month. As reported by CBS News with assistance from BBC, Smith’s resignation was anticipated after he completed his investigations.

Smith was appointed as special counsel in 2022 to oversee inquiries into alleged improper handling of classified documents by Trump and an alleged attempt to interfere with the 2020 presidential election results. Despite the gravity of the charges, Trump has consistently maintained his innocence, characterizing the prosecutions as politically motivated. Both cases were closed last year after Trump’s election victory, as Justice Department regulations prohibit the prosecution of a sitting president.

Reports earlier indicated that Smith's resignation was strategically timed to prevent potential dismissal by the incoming administration or its attorney general. His resignation leaves both of the high-profile criminal cases unresolved in court.

In recent developments, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon issued a temporary order blocking the release of Smith's report regarding the classified documents investigation—a move triggered by requests from Trump's former co-defendants. The judge's order was intended to remain in place while a higher appeals court reviewed an emergency appeal from the co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveira, who have also pleaded not guilty.

By legal standards, special counsels are required to submit their findings to the Attorney General, who has committed to transparency and public disclosure of reports. However, Trump’s legal team argues that Smith's appointment was unconstitutional and questions his legal authority to submit the report.

In a separate legal matter, Trump recently received an "unconditional discharge" in a hush money criminal case, avoiding jail time or financial penalties. This outcome further complicates the legal landscape as Trump prepares to assume the presidency once again with a felony conviction looming over his political career.