House Judiciary Committee Issues Criminal Referral Against Former Special Counsel Jack Smith

1-Minute Brief

The referral raises questions about the handling of congressional testimony and potential legal consequences for a former federal prosecutor.

Key Facts

• House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan issued a criminal referral against Jack Smith.
• The referral accuses Smith of making false statements to Congress about accessing lawmakers' text messages.
• The GOP chair of the committee urged the Department of Justice to consider criminal charges against Smith.
• The alleged false statements relate to Smith's December 17, 2025, deposition before Congress.
• Jordan's letter was sent to the acting Attorney General, according to ABC News.

What Happened

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan referred former special counsel Jack Smith for possible criminal charges, alleging Smith made false statements during congressional testimony.

Why It Matters

This action marks a rare move to seek criminal prosecution of a former federal prosecutor and could have implications for congressional oversight and the conduct of special counsels.

What's Next

The Department of Justice will review the referral and determine whether to pursue charges. Further statements or actions from the DOJ or Smith may follow.