By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Special Counsel Jack Smith and his team plan to resign before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, as the Justice Department generally does not charge sitting presidents with crimes. The looming question is whether Smith’s final report, detailing his charging decisions, will be made public before Inauguration Day. The report must be submitted to Attorney General Merrick Garland, who has the authority to release it. Although Smith’s office was moving forward with the election interference case against Trump, the Supreme Court’s ruling that Trump has immunity for some acts as president has hampered the investigation. Additionally, a case concerning classified documents was dismissed in July but remains on appeal.
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Special counsel Jack Smith and his team are expected to resign before Donald Trump takes office, a move that has sparked widespread outrage and despair among those who hoped for justice to prevail. The prospect of Smith’s resignation, coupled with Trump’s victory, has ignited fears that the legal system has failed to hold Trump accountable for his alleged crimes.
The frustration stems from the belief that despite facing 34 felony charges, Trump will now enjoy the perks of a government job, including a six-figure salary and continued access to power, while remaining a threat to the nation. The disappointment is amplified by the fact that Trump’s past legal troubles, including the two impeachments and numerous investigations, have yielded no meaningful consequences.
This perceived failure of the justice system has fueled calls for drastic measures. Some argue that the indictments against Trump should have proceeded even after his election, regardless of the legal complexities. Others believe that the release of all evidence related to the case to the public is the only way to ensure transparency and accountability.
The decision to resign, if confirmed, will likely be seen as a defeat for justice and a victory for Trump. It will also raise questions about the independence of the Department of Justice and the ability of the legal system to protect the nation from future threats. The potential for Trump to use his power to retaliate against Smith and his team has added to the sense of urgency and fear surrounding this situation.
Many are calling for Merrick Garland, the Attorney General, to intervene and make the Smith report public, hoping to shed light on the evidence gathered and the decisions made. However, the likelihood of Garland taking such decisive action remains uncertain.
The prospect of Trump’s return to power has rekindled anxieties about the future of American democracy. Many see it as a sign that the country is sliding toward authoritarianism and a disregard for the rule of law. They fear that the erosion of democratic principles will only accelerate under Trump’s leadership, potentially leading to further political instability and societal division.
In the face of this perceived crisis, some are calling for a renewed commitment to activism and civic engagement. Others are urging the public to come together and resist the rise of extremism and authoritarianism. The future remains uncertain, but the looming threat of Trump’s return to power has created a palpable sense of unease and a renewed determination to safeguard democracy.