Federal authorities have launched an investigation into Jack Smith, the former special counsel who led high-profile criminal cases against ex-President Donald Trump. The probe, confirmed by the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC), examines potential violations of federal rules, though specific allegations remain undisclosed.
Smith, appointed in 2022, oversaw investigations into Trump’s handling of classified documents and alleged election interference. While the OSC lacks prosecutorial power, it can impose disciplinary measures or refer findings to the Justice Department.
Reports suggest the inquiry centers on possible breaches of the Hatch Act, which bars government employees from political activities. The scrutiny follows complaints from Republican Senator Tom Cotton, who accused Smith of meddling in the 2024 election.
Smith’s cases against Trump were dropped after the former president’s election victory, as Justice Department policy prohibits prosecuting a sitting president. Cotton dismissed the charges as politically motivated, framing them as campaign interference.
This investigation marks another clash between Trump’s administration and federal officials. Earlier this year, Trump fired the OSC’s former head, Henry Kerner, after Kerner advocated for reinstating dismissed federal employees. A court later ruled the termination unlawful, but Kerner abandoned his legal challenge, citing slim chances of success.
Smith is among several former officials scrutinized under Trump. Recent probes have also targeted ex-FBI Director James Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan over alleged false statements to Congress. Brennan has denounced the investigations as politically driven.
The inquiry into Smith underscores ongoing tensions between federal agencies and the Trump administration, raising questions about the impartiality of government oversight.
