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Office of Special Counsel Opens Hatch Act Inquiry Into Jack Smith

The independent watchdog is examining whether Smith’s prosecutions of President Donald Trump crossed political lines after Senator Tom Cotton filed a complaint.

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Jack Smith on Aug. 1, 2023, in Washington, D.C.
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Overview

  • The Hatch Act Unit formally launched the inquiry on August 1 to probe Smith’s actions while he served as special counsel.
  • Senator Tom Cotton alleged in a July letter that Smith timed prosecutions to influence the 2024 election, prompting the OSC review.
  • Smith led two high-profile cases against President Trump over classified documents and January 6 charges, both dismissed after Supreme Court immunity rulings and Trump’s reelection.
  • Investigators are examining emails and internal communications for evidence of prohibited partisan activity under the Hatch Act.
  • Smith has not publicly responded to the allegations and could face administrative sanctions or referral to the Justice Department if violations are confirmed.