In a landmark congressional hearing, former Special Counsel Jack Smith delivered his first public testimony regarding his criminal investigations of former President Donald Trump, asserting unequivocal responsibility for the January 6th Capitol riot. Appearing before lawmakers for five hours, Smith detailed the extensive evidence gathered against Trump in two major cases: alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and the unlawful retention of classified documents after leaving office.
Smith testified that his team had compiled “overwhelming evidence” and possessed “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” that would have secured convictions in both cases before they were dropped following Trump’s return to the White House. The former special counsel characterized Trump as “the most culpable and most responsible person” in the conspiracy to interfere with the election certification process.
“The attack that happened at the Capitol, part of this case, does not happen without him,” Smith stated. “The other co-conspirators were doing this for his benefit.”
The hearing revealed sharp partisan divisions, with Republicans accusing Smith of conducting partisan investigations and allegedly spying on GOP lawmakers through subpoenas for phone records. Democrats, meanwhile, focused on Trump’s alleged wrongdoing and praised Smith’s investigative work.
Smith addressed potential retaliation from the Trump administration, noting that the former president’s repeated statements were “meant to intimidate me” and served as “a warning to others.” He revealed that federal officials had opened an investigation into his conduct, though the specific focus remains unclear.
Notably, Smith expressed bewilderment at Trump’s mass pardon of over 1,000 individuals convicted or accused of crimes related to the January 6th riot, many of whom had been charged with assaulting law enforcement officers. “I do not understand why you would mass pardon people who assaulted police officers,” he said. “I don’t get it. I never will.”
The hearing was punctuated by emotional moments, particularly when four former Capitol Police officers seated behind Smith reacted visibly to lawmakers’ comments. Texas Republican Troy Nehls directly addressed the officers, blaming Capitol Police leadership rather than Trump for the riot, which prompted outbursts from the audience.
While Smith testified, Trump posted extensively on social media from Switzerland, calling Smith a “deranged animal” who should be prosecuted and have his law license revoked. The former president accused Smith of destroying “many lives under the guise of legitimacy” and suggested Democrats should pay “a big price” for their actions.