In an exclusive letter obtained by The Daily Wire, Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General, Michael Horowitz, to investigate special counsel Jack Smith regarding concerns over potential election influence in the case against former President Donald Trump. Gaetz alleges that Smith is pressing the Supreme Court to expedite the consideration of Trump’s presidential immunity claim to fast-track the trial, possibly impacting the 2024 election timeline. Gaetz emphasizes a section of the Justice Manual prohibiting prosecutors from selecting the timing of actions to influence elections or favor specific candidates.
Gaetz argues that Smith’s actions, urging rapid review and emphasizing the public importance of the case without explicit justification, could be considered a violation of DOJ rules. The congressman contends that Smith’s motivation to hold a trial before the November 2024 election, even if not explicitly stated, goes against departmental policy and the law. Trump, facing federal charges related to overturning the 2020 election results, has pleaded not guilty, claiming actions within his official duties. The immunity claim dispute led to the delayed trial start date initially planned for March 4.
The Supreme Court rejected Smith’s request to expedite the immunity question, deferring it to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Gaetz accuses Smith’s investigation of being a partisan exercise, asserting that the special counsel’s actions violate DOJ rules and the law. Trump faces multiple criminal cases and civil litigation, maintaining his innocence and alleging politically motivated persecution.
Gaetz, a lawyer, outlines the legal impropriety of conducting the case during the election season in his letter, emphasizing the prohibited conduct of official actions aimed at affecting elections. He calls for the Inspector General’s immediate attention to ensure compliance with departmental regulations, urging an investigation into Smith’s actions and potential violation of the law.
The congressman accuses the DOJ of non-compliance with oversight requests and implores Horowitz to provide updates on the investigation’s developments. Gaetz asserts that prosecutors must adhere to higher standards and calls for a thorough examination of Smith’s motives and actions in the ongoing case against Trump.
