Former Special Counsel Jack Smith appeared on Capitol Hill on Wednesday for a high-stakes, closed-door hearing regarding his two criminal investigations into President Donald Trump.
In his opening statement, he informed Congress that his team has amassed proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Trump engaged in a criminal scheme to overturn the 2020 election results. Smith accused Trump of mishandling classified documents as well.
Trump has denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty to the charges, which were pursued after his electoral defeat.
In the middle of a political firestorm, Smith faced questions from House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, a vocal Trump supporter, who labeled Smith's inquiries as partisan, alleging misuse of prosecutorial power.
Republicans expressed outrage over the subpoenaing of phone records of several party lawmakers as part of the election investigation.
Smith's testimony remained inaccessible to the public, as the closed setting limited real-time insights. However, reports indicate that he emphasized the basis for the prosecutions rests significantly on Trump’s actions.
Furthermore, evidence was cited that Trump retained classified documents and obstructed their return, intensifying the scrutiny on his post-presidency conduct.
The atmosphere of the hearing hinted at looming tensions: on one hand, Democrats sought clarity on Smith's findings, while Republicans, aligned with Trump, questioned the propriety of his investigations.
Notably, the stakes are high for Smith, who attracts the former president's ire, having been branded a criminal by Trump, who has stressed calls for investigations against Smith and others involved.
The encounter on Capitol Hill underscores the continuing division and high stakes within U.S. politics as the battle between Trump and the judicial proceedings unfolds.
