Former President Donald Trump stated that if re-elected, he would immediately fire special counsel Jack Smith, who brought federal indictments against him. Trump expressed a strong dislike for Smith, calling him a “crooked person” and vowed to dismiss him within two seconds of taking office. He also claimed to have received immunity at the Supreme Court and downplayed the possibility of facing impeachment if Democrats regain control of the House.
Firing Smith could potentially halt the federal government’s prosecution against Trump, as the special counsel is pursuing cases on election interference and classified documents. Trump has so far avoided trial in the election interference case due to claims of presidential immunity that were ruled on by the Supreme Court in July.
Trump has been critical of Judge Tanya Chutkan and Smith, referring to them as “evil” and “sick.” Chutkan issued a gag order on Trump to prevent him from making remarks about potential witnesses or prosecutors. Last year, Trump warned that Justice Department officials could end up in a mental institution if he is re-elected.
In response to the possibility of Trump dismissing criminal charges against himself, Rep. Adam Schiff introduced legislation to prevent a sitting president from interfering in an active prosecution. However, this measure is unlikely to pass in the Republican-controlled House. The situation remains contentious as Trump continues to clash with the legal system and his critics.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com