Special Counsel Recommends Dropping Trump Election Fraud Case

Jack Smith cites Justice Department policy against prosecuting sitting presidents as Trump prepares to assume office in January.

Special Counsel Jack Smith has requested the dismissal of federal charges against Donald Trump related to election fraud and the January 6 Capitol attack.
Smith emphasized that the decision is based on longstanding Justice Department policy, which avoids prosecuting sitting presidents, not on the merits of the case.
The charges against Trump included conspiracy to defraud the United States and obstruction of official proceedings, stemming from his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.
The Justice Department has left open the possibility of re-filing charges after Trump leaves office, though legal experts suggest Trump could pardon himself as president.
Trump's legal team celebrated the move as a victory, while critics raised concerns about the implications for accountability and the rule of law.