2026 1-2 Matters of Democracy Jack Smith investigation; Mamdani; Trump's Health

key developments across the American political and legal landscape, drawing from recent events and disclosures. The primary takeaways are threefold:

1. Jack Smith's Post-Investigation Testimony: A newly released transcript of former special counsel Jack Smith’s deposition before the House Judiciary Committee reveals a robust defense of his investigation into Donald Trump. Smith detailed his trial strategy, which centered on using Trump’s own Republican allies as witnesses, and confirmed he had not made final charging decisions regarding alleged co-conspirators before his office was closed. He also provided justifications for seeking lawmakers' phone records and offered a critical assessment of testimony from former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson.

2. Zohran Mamdani's Mayoral Inauguration: In New York City, the inauguration of democratic socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani on January 1, 2026, signals a significant progressive shift. Mamdani doubled down on ambitious campaign pledges for sweeping change, including universal child care and free city buses, while explicitly vowing to govern as a democratic socialist. The event highlighted potential intra-party tensions within the Democratic establishment, particularly regarding his pledge to tax high-income earners.

3. Concerns Over President Trump's Health: During his second term, President Donald Trump's health has become an object of increased speculation. At age 79, he is the oldest person to assume the presidency, and public signs of aging have been noted. In a recent interview, Trump expressed frustration that information about a CAT scan was released and revealed he is defying doctors' advice regarding his daily aspirin dosage, citing personal superstition and a belief in his "good genetics."