House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) has subpoenaed former special counsel Jack Smith to appear for a deposition. The legal proceeding is set to occur behind closed doors and represents the next step in committee oversight following Smith’s decision not to testify voluntarily.
In correspondence with Smith, the House Judiciary Committee stated it intends to continue its review of operations under his leadership within the Office of Special Counsel. “The Committee on the Judiciary is continuing to conduct oversight of the operations… you led,” the letter conveyed. It further indicated that due to Smith’s service as special counsel overseeing specific matters related to President Donald J. Trump, the committee believes he holds vital information for this investigation.
Smith previously spearheaded two criminal investigations against the former president concerning actions taken after the 2020 election and allegations of improper handling of classified materials obtained during the probe. He ultimately withdrew both cases citing a Department of Justice policy prohibiting criminal prosecution of sitting presidents upon Donald Trump’s victory in the subsequent election cycle.
Despite Smith’s initial offer to publicly address Congress, Chairman Jordan has opted for a deposition format instead. A source familiar with Jordan’s request explained this choice stems from his preference for having each committee member able to question Smith thoroughly over an hour-long period and build a comprehensive record – contrasting with the shorter five-minute questioning rounds typical in public hearings.
Smith’s attorney confirmed that he had previously offered voluntary testimony before a public hearing six weeks ago. Peter Koski, representing Jack Smith, noted their disappointment when this offer was rejected and emphasized the American people would benefit from hearing directly from the Special Counsel about his investigations. The statement aligns with reports indicating that Smith remains willing to discuss these matters publicly.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), who leads the Democratic faction on the Judiciary Committee, has voiced strong criticism of Chairman Jordan’s approach. In a public statement, he accused Republicans and their allies in Congress of launching a “coordinated campaign to smear” Special Counsel Smith and his team. He specifically questioned why lawmakers felt compelled to deny the American public the opportunity to hear directly from the investigator himself about matters they deem important.
Raskin defended Smith’s work, stating it adhered strictly to legal protocols while conducting its investigations into Donald Trump’s actions during that period. He asked rhetorically what fears drove his colleagues to obstruct transparency in this manner.
The deposition is scheduled for a private session where committee members can question without media scrutiny or direct public engagement from the former special counsel.
