Special Counsel Halts Criminal Cases Against Trump
Special Counsel Jack Smith has decided to halt criminal cases against President-elect Donald Trump, citing Justice Department policy. This longstanding rule prevents prosecuting a sitting president, effectively pausing cases tied to Trump’s alleged election interference and improper handling of classified documents.
On Monday, Smith filed motions to dismiss the election interference case in Washington, D.C., and the classified documents case in Florida. He argued the Constitution requires these cases to end before Trump’s January inauguration. However, Smith clarified the dismissals may not be “with prejudice,” allowing a potential revival after Trump leaves office.
Judges Approve Dismissals; Trump Claims Victory
United States District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan approved the motion, agreeing the cases could theoretically resume after Trump’s presidency. The ruling effectively ends the current prosecutions but preserves future options.
Trump responded by accusing the justice system of “political weaponization” and labeled the cases an unconstitutional effort to undermine him. His spokesperson, Steven Cheung, called the dismissal a victory for the rule of law and urged an end to divisive prosecutions.
Smith also confirmed Trump’s legal team supported the dismissals, aligning with Justice Department precedent and constitutional requirements.