In an exclusive letter obtained by The Daily Wire, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has called upon the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General Michael Horowitz to investigate special counsel Jack Smith over potential manipulation of the timeline of the case against former President Donald Trump. Gaetz expresses concerns about Smith’s push to expedite the consideration of Trump’s presidential immunity claim by the Supreme Court, suspecting an attempt to influence the 2024 election.
Gaetz points to a section in the Justice Manual stating that federal prosecutors should never time actions, including investigative steps or criminal charges, to impact an election. He contends that Smith’s filing in December tacitly acknowledges a violation of DOJ rules, as it urges the Supreme Court for a rapid review without explicitly justifying the urgency or public importance.
The congressman argues that since charges are filed, and the defendant has taken a legal position on timing and lodged various appeals, justifications like defendant rights or Speedy Trial Act compliance are insufficient. Gaetz suggests that the only plausible conclusion is Smith’s desire to hold a trial before the November 2024 election, violating departmental policy and law, as the filing lacks a non-election-related justification.
Trump, facing charges related to allegedly plotting to overturn the 2020 election, has pleaded not guilty. The Supreme Court, after rejecting Smith’s request for a swift immunity question consideration, is set to address the issue on April 25. Gaetz characterizes Smith’s actions as a partisan exercise interfering with the 2024 election, violating DOJ rules and the law.
Highlighting three other criminal cases against Trump and civil litigation, Gaetz contends that Smith’s investigation is politically motivated. He emphasizes the legal impropriety of pursuing the case during an election season, urging Horowitz to scrutinize Smith’s compliance with departmental regulations and investigative actions during this period.
Gaetz concludes the letter by calling for immediate attention to Smith’s compliance with regulations and requests updates on any developments in the matter.