Former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith revealed to lawmakers during a closed-door interview on December 17, 2025, that his team has developed “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” that former President Donald Trump criminally conspired to overturn the results of the 2020 election. This assertion was made public through portions of Smith’s opening statement obtained by the Associated Press.
Smith also stated that his investigators gathered “powerful evidence” indicating that Trump violated the law by unlawfully retaining classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and obstructed government efforts to recover these records. “I made my decisions in the investigation without regard to President Trump’s political association, activities, beliefs, or candidacy in the 2024 election,” Smith emphasized. He asserted that all actions taken were based strictly on the facts and applicable law.
Details of the Closed-Door Testimony
The private deposition before the House Judiciary Committee marks Smith’s first opportunity to respond to questions regarding two investigations into Trump. These inquiries initially led to criminal charges that were later abandoned after Trump was re-elected in 2024. Smith had been subpoenaed earlier in December to provide testimony and documents as part of a broader Republican investigation into the Trump probes during the Biden Administration.
While Smith had volunteered to answer questions publicly before the committee, his offer was reportedly declined by Republican members. His attorney, Lanny Breuer, praised Smith’s willingness to testify, calling it an act of courage amid what he termed an “unprecedented retribution campaign” against him.
Trump himself addressed the media, expressing support for a public hearing, stating, “I’d rather see him testify publicly. There’s no way he can answer the questions.” This statement underscores the heightened political tensions surrounding the ongoing investigations.
Investigations and Evidence
Smith’s testimony is expected to cover both investigations but will not include discussions about grand jury materials, which are legally protected. A source familiar with the matter noted that Smith intends to clarify what he believes are mischaracterizations made by Republican lawmakers regarding his investigation, particularly concerning the analysis of cellphone records of certain GOP members related to the events of January 6, 2021.
In 2022, Smith was appointed to oversee the Justice Department’s investigations into Trump’s attempts to overturn his electoral defeat and his retention of classified documents. His team filed charges in both cases, though these were later abandoned following Trump’s election to the White House again.
Republicans in Congress have actively pursued interviews with members of Smith’s team, particularly in light of revelations that the team analyzed the phone records of some lawmakers during the tumultuous events leading up to and on January 6. While the records contained only details regarding call durations and numbers, they have drawn significant political scrutiny.
Smith’s comprehensive approach to the investigations emphasizes a commitment to legal principles over political affiliations. This approach reflects his long-standing career as a prosecutor, where he has consistently underscored the importance of adhering to the law. As this investigation continues to unfold, the implications for Trump and the broader political landscape remain substantial.
For ongoing coverage of Jack Smith’s investigations and their impacts, visit the Associated Press or other reputable news sources.
