Special Counsel Jack Smith has officially resigned from the Department of Justice, a move anticipated ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Smith submitted his final confidential report on January 7, 2025, and separated from the department three days later.

Final Report and Legal Implications

Smith’s report focuses on Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. While federal charges against Trump were dropped after his election victory in 2024, the report’s release is expected to provide significant insights into the investigation.

Earlier this week, a federal appeals court permitted the Justice Department to release the report, though Judge Aileen Cannon imposed a three-day delay to allow Trump to appeal the decision. Smith confirmed that the second volume of the report, addressing the classified documents case, will not be released as charges against co-defendants are still pending.

Smith’s Appointment and Investigations

Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith in November 2022 to ensure independence and accountability in politically sensitive matters. Smith oversaw investigations into Trump’s alleged election interference and the mishandling of classified documents. Despite initial indictments, both cases faced significant legal and procedural challenges.

Judge Cannon dismissed the classified documents case in July 2024, citing issues with Smith’s appointment and funding. Similarly, the election interference case stalled due to the DOJ’s long-standing policy of not prosecuting sitting presidents.

Trump’s Reaction

Trump frequently criticized Smith throughout the investigations, pledging to dismiss him immediately upon taking office. A spokesperson for Trump did not comment on Smith’s resignation, but the president-elect has been vocal in dismissing the investigations as politically motivated.

Impact on the Justice Department

Smith’s resignation leaves the Justice Department to navigate complex political and legal dynamics. Garland’s decision to appoint Smith underscored the department’s commitment to accountability, though the investigations remain contentious among partisan lines.

As the department prepares to release Smith’s report, its findings could influence public opinion and serve as a historical record of the alleged actions surrounding the 2020 election.

Conclusion

Jack Smith’s resignation marks the end of a high-profile tenure at the Department of Justice. His investigations highlighted the challenges of pursuing accountability in politically sensitive cases and left a lasting impact on public discourse.

The release of Smith’s report will shape the narrative around Trump’s presidency and the Justice Department’s role in upholding justice in a polarized political landscape.