Former President Donald Trump stated that he would immediately fire special counsel Jack Smith if he is reelected to a second term. Trump described Smith as a “crooked person” and said he believes he has immunity at the Supreme Court. He also claimed that Democrats would not impeach him for firing Smith if they retake the House majority.
Smith’s office did not comment on Trump’s remarks, but firing him could potentially end the federal government’s prosecution against Trump. Smith is pursuing an election interference case against Trump in Washington, D.C., while appealing a ruling in Florida dismissing a classified documents case.
Trump has delayed court proceedings in the election interference case by asserting presidential immunity, which was ruled on by the Supreme Court in July. Despite claims of interference, evidence used by the special counsel was released last week, leading Trump to criticize the judge and Smith.
Last year, Trump warned that Smith and other Justice Department officials would end up in a mental institution if he is reelected. In response to potential actions by Trump, Rep. Adam Schiff introduced legislation to prevent a sitting president from dismissing a criminal prosecution against themselves. However, this measure is unlikely to pass in the Republican-run House.
Overall, Trump’s comments regarding firing Smith and ongoing legal battles suggest ongoing tension between the former president and the special counsel in the event of a second term.
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