Story perspectives

Jack Smith Defends Trump Charges After Senate Testimony

By Drooid · Sep 29, 2026, 6:07 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Jack Smith testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on September 29 2026 in Washington, D.C.
Republican senators framed the hearing as an investigation of Smith’s alleged abuse of authority and targeting of Republicans.
Smith said his decisions to charge President Donald Trump were made independently after reviewing incredibly strong evidence.
Republican senators questioned Smith about GOP lawmakers’ toll records and alleged violation of the Speech or Debate Clause.

History

Historical Context

After the Senate created the Watergate Committee in February 1973, Sam Ervin led hearings that began May 17, 1973, broadcasting 319 hours of testimony and issuing a 1,250-page report in June 1974. In September 2026, the Senate Judiciary Committee summoned Special Counsel Jack Smith, echoing past congressional probes that reshaped prosecutorial independence and public trust.

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Story summary

Jack Smith testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on September 29 2026 in Washington, D.C.
Republican senators framed the hearing as an investigation of Smith’s alleged abuse of authority and targeting of Republicans.
Smith said his decisions to charge President Donald Trump were made independently after reviewing incredibly strong evidence.
Republican senators questioned Smith about GOP lawmakers’ toll records and alleged violation of the Speech or Debate Clause.

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