Trump’s Bold Declaration
Donald Trump pledged to fire Special Counsel Jack Smith if he regains the presidency. He made this statement during an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt. Trump asserted, “I would fire him within two seconds.”
Jack Smith currently oversees two high-profile cases against Trump. One case involves attempts to overturn the 2020 election. The other case addresses Trump’s handling of classified documents post-presidency. When asked if he’d pardon himself or fire Smith, Trump chose the latter without hesitation.
Reactions and Criticism
Legal experts quickly criticized Trump’s statement. Critics argued it threatens the independence of the Justice Department. National security attorney Bradley P. Moss said Trump’s remarks show he sees himself as “above the law.” He warned Trump’s potential return to power could bring authoritarian governance.
Trump’s disdain for Smith is well-documented. He labeled Smith “deranged” in a July 2023 interview with Breitbart News. On Truth Social, Trump suggested Smith and his team deserve imprisonment.
During his first term, Trump tried to fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Mueller’s investigation focused on Russian interference in the 2016 election. Trump’s attempts to oust Mueller were detailed in Mueller’s final report.
Trump’s plans extend beyond Smith’s removal. He hinted at prosecuting political opponents using the Justice Department. His comments followed new evidence in his election interference case. Former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly described Trump’s behavior as aligning with “a general definition of fascist.”
Hugh Hewitt warned that firing Smith could spark an impeachment inquiry. He referenced President Richard Nixon’s Watergate scandal as a historical precedent. Trump dismissed the threat, expressing confidence that Congress would not impeach him.