U.S. Office of Special Counsel Investigates Former Special Counsel Jack Smith for Hatch Act Violations
The U.S. Office of Special Counsel is investigating former Special Counsel Jack Smith for alleged Hatch Act violations, following a referral from Senator Tom Cotton regarding actions potentially harming former President Trump.
Epoch TimesSpecial Counsel Office Opens Investigation Into Trump Prosecutor Jack Smith
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Rolling StoneTrump's Admin Is Investigating Jack Smith, Who Prosecuted Him Over Jan. 6
PBS NewsHourWatchdog agency investigates ex-Trump prosecutor Jack Smith for alleged illegal political activity
Overview
The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is investigating former Special Counsel Jack Smith for potential Hatch Act violations, which prohibit federal employees from engaging in political activity.
The probe was initiated after a referral from Republican Senator Tom Cotton, who alleged Smith's actions were intended to harm former President Trump's political prospects.
Appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in November 2022, Smith was responsible for cases involving alleged mishandling of classified documents and efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
Accusations against Smith, including illegal political activity and 2024 election interference, currently lack supporting evidence, despite claims from former President Trump and Republican allies.
The independent OSC's investigation follows Smith dropping cases against Trump post-2024 election, citing Justice Department policy, emphasizing the timing of the probe.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources collectively frame the investigation into Jack Smith by questioning its legitimacy and suggesting it's part of a broader pattern of political targeting. They emphasize the lack of clear basis for the probe, highlight the partisan background of the current OSC leadership, and draw comparisons to other investigations under the Trump administration, implying a selective focus.