Story perspectives

Jack Smith Defends Trump Prosecution Amid Political Backlash

1/25/2026

Center

Smith Defends Prosecution

Former Special Counsel Jack Smith defended his prosecution of U.S. President Donald Trump during a House Judiciary Committee hearing, saying the investigations rested on evidence.
Smith stated that Trump was largely responsible for the Capitol riot and criticized Trump's mass pardons of rioters.
Smith expressed concerns about potential intimidation from Trump and the Justice Department.
Republican lawmakers framed the investigations as politically motivated.

Right

Moriarty Advocates Transparency

A federal judge in Minnesota barred the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump from destroying evidence in the Alex Pretti Border Patrol shooting.
The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office filed the lawsuit to ensure state access to evidence.
Alex Pretti was armed with a pistol during the operation and allegedly resisted arrest.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty urged transparency and accountability.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said federal agents must be held accountable.

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Smith Defends Prosecution

Former Special Counsel Jack Smith defended his prosecution of U.S. President Donald Trump during a House Judiciary Committee hearing, saying the investigations rested on evidence.
Smith stated that Trump was largely responsible for the Capitol riot and criticized Trump's mass pardons of rioters.
Smith expressed concerns about potential intimidation from Trump and the Justice Department.
Republican lawmakers framed the investigations as politically motivated.

1 / 2