
Special Counsel Jack Smith has resigned from the Department of Justice after his investigations into President-elect Donald Trump collapsed. His resignation, effective January 10, was quietly disclosed in a court filing urging U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to lift an order blocking the release of Smith’s final report.
Smith’s departure marks the end of two politically charged investigations—one into Trump’s handling of classified documents and another regarding alleged interference in the 2020 election. Both cases were dropped after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November election. The Justice Department cited its long-standing policy against prosecuting sitting presidents.
Jack Smith Resigns, Having Failed To Take Trump to Trial for Either January 6 or the Secret Documents at Mar-a-Lago
— Gena Perez “NV DEPLORABLE “ (@GenaPer86873483) January 12, 2025
Another Democrat political hoax fails
Jack Smith Resigns, Having Failed To Take Trump to Trial for Either January 6 or the Secret Documents at Mar-a-Lago 📰 @NewYorkSunhttps://t.co/1Q55f91h1I
— Al (@Al01619246Al) January 12, 2025
Trump and his supporters have long criticized Smith, accusing him of leading politically motivated investigations. Trump often referred to Smith as “deranged” and promised to fire him immediately upon returning to office. Smith’s exit eliminates one of Trump’s most vocal legal challengers as he prepares for his second term.
"Special Counsel Jack Smith resigns after submitting his investigative report on President-elect Trump. His departure marks the end of two withdrawn prosecutions post-Trump's election win. Legal battles loom over the report's public release. #JackSmith #Trump #JusticeDepartment…
— PMLN (USA) (@pmlnusa) January 12, 2025
Legal challenges to Smith’s cases mounted even before Trump’s victory. A Trump-appointed judge dismissed the classified documents case, ruling Smith’s appointment was invalid. Additionally, the Supreme Court ruled that former presidents have broad immunity for official acts, stalling the election interference case. These setbacks significantly weakened the Justice Department’s position.
The RAT left the ship, I wonder why?
Jack Smith Formally Resigns From The DOJhttps://t.co/RyUH8CBUSy— Lyle Philly (@LyleLarkin) January 12, 2025
Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith in November 2022 to oversee these investigations, aiming to provide independence in politically sensitive cases. However, many conservatives argued that the probes were part of a broader effort to weaponize the justice system against Trump and his supporters.
Smith’s resignation signals the end of the criminal cases against Trump, allowing him to focus on his transition back into office. This development strengthens Trump’s position and reflects the growing backlash against politically driven prosecutions.