In his first public remarks since leaving the Justice Department, former special counsel Jack Smith cautioned that the rule of law is facing unprecedented threats. Speaking at George Mason University, Smith condemned political interference in prosecutions, selective targeting of opponents, and protection of presidential allies from accountability.
Smith pointed to recent DOJ turmoil, including prosecutors resigning over dropped corruption cases, forced leadership changes, and pressure to pursue politically motivated charges. He argued that norms ensuring impartial justice are being eroded: “Law itself must be the same for everyone, but importantly it must be enforced the same for everyone.”
The White House has rejected claims of politicization, but Smith warned that the credibility of U.S. institutions is at risk when prosecutors are asked to act against their legal and ethical duties.