US officials open investigation into former special counsel Jack Smith

August 2, 2025

The Office of the Special Counsel (OSC) has opened an investigation into Jack Smith, who previously led two federal criminal cases against Donald Trump before resigning earlier this year. The investigation reportedly focuses on potential Hatch Act violations, which prohibit political activities by government officials, following Republican Senator Tom Cotton's allegation that Smith engaged in "unprecedented interference in the 2024 election. " Smith was appointed by former Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022 to investigate Trump's alleged mishandling of classified documents and election interference, both cases eventually being closed after Trump's 2024 presidential election victory.

Who is affected

Jack Smith, former special counsel
Donald Trump, who was investigated by Smith
The Office of the Special Counsel (OSC) conducting the investigation
The Department of Justice, which may receive referrals from the OSC
Federal government employees subject to Hatch Act restrictions

What action is being taken

The Office of the Special Counsel is actively investigating Jack Smith for potential Hatch Act violations
The OSC is examining allegations of "unprecedented interference in the 2024 election" as claimed by Senator Tom Cotton
The OSC is conducting its investigation as an independent federal agency separate from the Department of Justice

Why it matters

The investigation involves a high-profile former special counsel who led major cases against the current president
It raises questions about the political neutrality of federal investigations and prosecutions
The case is part of a pattern of investigations into former officials under the Trump administration, including James Comey and John Brennan
It follows controversies about the politicization of government agencies, including Trump's firing of the OSC's former head Hampton Dellinger
The outcome could impact perceptions of justice department independence and political influence in legal proceedings

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC