UPDATE: Former special counsel Jack Smith has just disclosed explosive testimony, stating that the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol “does not happen” without Donald Trump. This testimony was shared during a private deposition with the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee on December 17, 2022, and has now been made public, igniting fresh debate over Trump’s role in the insurrection.
Smith, who characterized Trump as the “most culpable and most responsible person” in the conspiracy to overturn Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory, emphasized the alarming connection between Trump’s actions and the violence that unfolded. “The attack that happened at the Capitol does not happen without him,” Smith asserted, underlining the urgent nature of the findings.
During the deposition, Smith faced repeated questioning from committee members, who suggested that his indictments against Trump were politically motivated. However, Smith staunchly defended his investigation, stating, “These crimes were committed for his benefit,” and rejecting any notion that the pursuit of charges aimed to impede Trump’s potential 2024 presidential bid.
Trump’s involvement in the events leading to the riot remains a critical focus. The violent attack resulted in five deaths in just 36 hours and left 174 police officers injured. Smith noted that evidence gathered during the investigation, particularly the cooperation of Trump allies, was pivotal in establishing culpability. “We had an elector in Pennsylvania who, despite being a former congressman and supporter of Trump, stated that what they were trying to do was an attempt to overthrow the government and illegal,” Smith revealed.
This latest disclosure comes in the wake of Trump’s second impeachment in January 2021 for inciting insurrection. Despite overwhelming evidence, Trump and some of his closest aides have continued to propagate a narrative that downplays the violence of that day, claiming the rioters acted peacefully. Smith criticized these falsehoods, emphasizing the extensive evidence against Trump, including testimony from those who placed their allegiance to the country over party loyalty.
As Smith’s testimony gains traction, it raises crucial questions about accountability and the future of political discourse in the U.S. Smith’s assertion that Trump “caused” the violence and “exploited” it for his gain has significant implications for the ongoing investigations and potential legal repercussions for the former president.
Looking ahead, the public release of this testimony is expected to intensify scrutiny on Trump’s actions surrounding the insurrection. With the upcoming 2024 elections on the horizon, the ramifications of Smith’s findings could resonate throughout the political landscape, affecting not just Trump but also his allies and the Republican Party at large.
As the nation reflects on the implications of January 6, 2021, the urgency of accountability and truth continues to resonate. The latest revelations from Jack Smith underscore the need for transparency and justice in the face of unprecedented political violence.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the fallout from Smith’s testimony unfolds in the coming days.
