Former Special Counsel Jack Smith Faces Investigation by Office of Special Counsel Over Allegations of Political Bias

By Zamal Uddin

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) has officially opened an investigation into Jack Smith, the former Special Counsel who led two high-profile investigations into former President Donald Trump during the Biden administration. This marks the first formal inquiry into Smith’s conduct amid claims that he engaged in political activities that may have violated federal regulations.

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🔎 Background on Jack Smith’s Investigations

Jack Smith, appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland under President Joe Biden, oversaw two major cases involving Donald Trump:

• The investigation into Trump’s handling of classified documents.

• The probe into Trump’s actions related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.

Both cases were ultimately dismissed, but Smith’s role has remained controversial, drawing scrutiny from political figures and watchdogs.

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⚖️ Office of Special Counsel Review

According to a reviewed email from Senior Counsel Charles Baldis of the OSC, the agency’s Hatch Act Unit has begun examining whether Smith violated rules that prohibit federal employees from participating in political activities.

The Hatch Act is designed to ensure government officials maintain political neutrality while performing their duties. This investigation into Jack Smith could have significant implications for how political conduct is regulated within the Department of Justice.

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🗣️ Political Reactions and Accountability Calls

Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, responded to the investigation with a strong statement:

“I appreciate the Office of Special Counsel taking this seriously and launching an investigation into Jack Smith’s conduct. No one is above the law.
Jack Smith’s actions were clearly driven to hurt President Trump’s election, and Smith should be held fully accountable.”

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📌 Key Points and Next Steps

• This is the first formal investigation into Jack Smith’s conduct by the OSC.

• The review centers on potential violations of the Hatch Act related to political impartiality.

• The investigation comes amid broader concerns over politicization within the Justice Department.

• No official timeline has been given for the investigation’s conclusion.

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