Key Takeaways:
– Donald Trump expressed intentions to fire Special Counsel Jack Smith ‘within two seconds’ of reclaiming presidency.
– Trump was probed by Smith over the alleged mishandling of classified documents and obstruction of an investigation.
– Two federal cases have been filed against Trump, one of which was dismissed and is under appeal while the other is pending due to a delay.
– Trump’s stance on the special counsel is being used by DNC candidate Kamala Harris in campaign ads.
Trump’s Intention to Dismiss Special Counsel Jack Smith
Former President Donald Trump, on Thursday, unequivocally announced his plans to dismiss Special Counsel Jack Smith swiftly upon regaining the presidency. His response arrived during an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, emphasizing that Smith’s termination would be one of Trump’s earliest actions if he returns to office.
The Controversies Surrounding Trump
Smith, appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022, has indicted Trump over his alleged obstruction of an inquiry into the attempted overturn of the 2020 election results. A separate indictment surrounds the controversial mishandling of classified documents. Trump’s dismissal of the special counsel in the future, therefore, holds significance.
Trump’s History with Special Counsels
When Trump was being investigated by Robert S. Mueller III during his presidency, he had reached out to White House counsel, Donald McGahn, urging the Justice Department to terminate Mueller. However, McGahn declined. It is worth noting that Trump may not be able to dismiss Smith independently due to the fact that he isn’t a presidential appointee.
Cases Against Trump
The Special Counsel has filed two separate cases against Trump. The first case involved illegal retention of classified documents at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, which was dismissed in July. Smith is actively appealing that decision. The second case involves felony charges related to attempts made in overturning the 2020 election loss. However, a Supreme Court opinion granting broad immunity for official presidential acts has delayed proceedings.
Impeachment Over the Firing of Smith
Following Trump’s announcement of his intention to fire Smith, Hewitt posed the potentiality of Congress moving to impeach Trump. Trump dismissed this concern, expressing an unyielding belief that he would not face impeachment if he replaced Smith.
Harris Seizing the Campaign Opportunity
In response to these developments, Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris has capitalized on the controversy surrounding Trump. The Harris campaign recently released an ad highlighting Smith’s investigation and Trump’s role in the infamous Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The ad effectively used these controversies to influence public opinion towards her candidacy.
The Judge Trump Lauds
Amidst the criticism against Smith, Trump had words of appreciation for U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon. Trump, who appointed Cannon and had seen his classified documents case dismissed by her, regarded her as a “brave, brilliant judge.”
Awaiting Sentencing
Notwithstanding his issues with the Special Counsel, Trump is due to be sentenced next month for his felony conviction in a New York case. This case pertains to a hush money payment made to a porn actor. This pending sentence, combined with the legal entanglements involving Smith, underscore the impending challenges Trump is bound to face in his journey back to office.