Washington, D.C. — Today, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Jack Smith, former chief of the Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section, as special counsel to investigate possible criminal misconduct related to former President Donald Trump. In response, Ben Olinsky, senior vice president of Structural Reform and Governance at the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:
The American people expect accountability for anyone involved in criminal misconduct, whether it be former President Trump or his allies. No one is above the law. We’ve seen a mountain of disturbing evidence regarding Trump’s role in the January 6 insurrection and his handling of classified and highly sensitive documents after leaving office. Jack Smith has a sterling reputation and solid experience prosecuting high-profile crimes. His appointment helps show that this investigation will be truly independent, without a hint of partisanship, and based on the facts wherever they lead. The investigation should proceed without delay.
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