Jim Jordan opts for confidentiality over transparency in his investigation of Jack Smith

At the start of 2025, former special counsel Jack Smith stepped down reluctantly after the outcome of the 2024 election halted his criminal proceedings against Donald Trump. As the year comes to a close, Smith remains a frequent target for Republican criticism.

Former President Trump continues to promote baseless attacks against Smith, while Republican officials who collaborated with the former special counsel face ongoing removal from positions. Various GOP figures have also advanced conspiracy theories against him, though none have provided evidence of wrongdoing.

On Capitol Hill, Republican lawmakers persist in treating Smith as a political target. Representative Michael Rulli of Ohio accused Smith of actions he described as close to treason, and Senator Marsha Blackburn referred Smith to the Justice Department for alleged misconduct, based on claims she appeared to misunderstand. Several other GOP members have even suggested Smith should be disbarred. Despite these efforts, no proof has surfaced that Smith engaged in any improper conduct.

Recently, House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican, escalated the situation by issuing a subpoena for Smith to appear for a closed-door deposition on December 17. Smiths attorney expressed disappointment that Republicans declined Smiths offer to testify publicly, which he had proposed in October. The former special counsel had requested a public hearing to ensure transparency, allowing the American people to see and hear the proceedings.

Peter Koski, representing Smith, stated: Nearly six weeks ago, Jack offered to voluntarily appear before the House Judiciary Committee in an open hearing to answer any questions about his investigation into President Trumps alleged efforts to unlawfully overturn the election and his handling of classified documents. We are disappointed that offer was rejected, denying the public the chance to hear directly from Jack. He looks forward to meeting with the committee later this month to clarify misconceptions about his work.

Smith sought greater transparency but had limited control over the process. The New York Times noted that House Republicans are cautious about giving Smith a prominent public platform, fearing he might make a compelling case for the indictments related to Trumps actions following the 2020 election and his retention of classified materials.

Smiths reputation as a skilled and credible prosecutor, with in-depth knowledge of Trumps criminal cases, positions him to remind the public of the allegations against the former president. Meanwhile, Trump told reporters he would prefer Smith to testify publicly. However, Jordan appears likely to continue prioritizing private proceedings, regardless of the White Houses stance.

Author: Chloe Ramirez