House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan Expands Probe Into Special Counsel's Prosecutions of Former President Trump

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
21/12/2023 21h09

In a continuation of his efforts to scrutinize the actions of special counsel Jack Smith, House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) has requested all documents and records related to Smith's prosecutions of former President Trump. This follows similar requests made to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis (D) and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) regarding their prosecutorial efforts against Trump.

Jordan's extensive request not only seeks records pertaining to Smith's prosecutions but also includes details on accessing Trump's account on X, formerly known as Twitter. The inquiry also delves into information regarding Smith's staff, their salaries, and any associated travel costs. Failure to comply with the request could potentially lead to a subpoena.

The investigations of Trump targeted by Jordan's request cover two specific cases: election interference and mishandling of classified records under the Espionage Act. In a joint statement with Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Jordan expressed concerns about "evenhanded justice" in Smith's approach.

While Smith's office has yet to provide a comment on the matter, it is worth noting that under Jordan's leadership, the Judiciary Committee has made multiple demands for information on ongoing criminal cases and investigations. This includes requests to every prosecutor handling charges against Trump, as well as securing an interview with special counsel David Weiss, who oversees the prosecution of Hunter Biden.

This is not the first time Jordan has shown interest in Smith's activities. He previously wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting information on any FBI personnel assisting Smith's investigation. In addition, Jordan directly contacted Smith in September, inquiring about a visit by one of Smith's top prosecutors to the White House. Despite Jordan's concerns about potential coordination with President Biden, the visit was related to the investigation into Trump's mishandling of classified documents.

Of particular interest to Jordan is Smith's investigation into Trump's X (formerly Twitter) account, with the special counsel recently emphasizing the use of collected data from Trump's phone while the app was in use. Smith obtained a search warrant for the account in July, which was only made public in August.

While Smith has remained silent amidst Jordan's efforts to target him, other prosecutors have spoken out against what they see as interference in an ongoing investigation. Earlier this year, District Attorney Willis criticized Jordan's letter, considering it an "illegal intrusion" that goes against the constitutional boundaries of congressional authority.

The developments in the expanding probe into Smith's prosecutions of former President Trump highlight the ongoing tensions between lawmakers and prosecutors involved in high-profile cases. The repercussions of this investigation may have far-reaching implications for the delicate balance between the legislative and investigative branches of government.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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