Trump Administration Removes DOJ Officials From Jack Smith’s Investigations

The Justice Department has fired over a dozen officials who were involved in prosecuting President Donald Trump during Jack Smith’s tenure as special counsel. Acting Attorney General James McHenry made the decision, stating the officials could not be trusted to carry out the administration’s goals, according to a DOJ official.

McHenry notified the employees of their dismissal through letters, but the names of those removed have not been disclosed. A Justice Department official explained that the action was taken because of their significant roles in Smith’s investigations, which were seen as politically motivated by the administration.

Smith was appointed by former Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022 to oversee two investigations into Trump — one regarding classified records and another tied to the 2020 election. Both cases were dismissed after Trump’s 2024 election victory. Smith, who resigned after concluding his work, stated that his decisions were not influenced by politics, though President Trump consistently rejected that claim.

The firings coincide with a broader shake-up within the Justice Department. Numerous career officials have been reassigned, including leaders from the criminal and national security divisions. These moves align with President Trump’s executive order to end the “weaponization” of government institutions.

Additionally, a review of charging decisions in Jan. 6-related cases was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Edward Martin in Washington, D.C. Prosecutors have been asked to submit documents and communications related to obstruction charges brought against hundreds of defendants. The Supreme Court previously ruled that the statute was applied too broadly.

The Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section chief also resigned after being reassigned. This official had advised Jack Smith during his investigations into Trump, court records revealed. Further details about the department’s changes remain undisclosed.