Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team is under investigation by the Justice Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) over allegations of potential misconduct during its probe into President-elect Donald Trump.
House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-OH) revealed that the OPR initiated its inquiry in June 2023. The investigation began after a prosecutor self-reported a complaint made by a defense attorney in the Florida classified materials case.
Jeffrey Ragsdale, the OPR chief, clarified that self-referrals do not indicate misconduct but ensure that any allegations are appropriately reviewed. The DOJ’s policy is to conduct such reviews after cases conclude to avoid interfering with prosecutions.
Among the claims is an allegation that prosecutor Jay Bratt referenced a defense attorney’s involvement with a judicial nomination panel during a meeting. Bratt denies using the comment as leverage, stating it was made as a professional acknowledgment.
Jordan has launched additional investigations into the conduct of Smith’s team, expressing concerns that delays in the DOJ’s process could allow individuals to leave without accountability.
Smith’s resignation as special counsel marked the conclusion of his work, allowing the OPR to move forward with a broader evaluation of the team’s actions.
