Special Counsel Jack Smith plans to retire before Trump takes office

Special Counsel Jack Smith to Retire Before Trump’s Return to Office

Special Counsel Jack Smith is reportedly planning to retire before President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January, thus avoiding the possibility of being fired by the incoming president.

Smith, who has been overseeing federal criminal cases against Trump related to his actions in trying to overturn the 2020 election and the handling of classified documents, is wrapping up his work ahead of the 47th president’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, as reported by the New York Times.

Sources indicate that Smith’s decision to retire is preemptive, as Trump had promised to dismiss the special counsel within moments of assuming office.

Smith’s goal is to conclude his work before Trump returns to power and potentially seeks retribution against those involved in bringing criminal charges against him.

The Department of Justice has a policy of not prosecuting a sitting president, and officials are reportedly aware that pursuing charges against Trump would be futile.