Headline: Explosive Testimony: Ex-Special Counsel Smith Defends Probe into Trump's Capitol Assault and Classified Documents

Former special counsel Jack Smith testified before Congress on January 22, 2026, forcefully defending his investigations into Donald Trump's role in the January 6 Capitol attack and the mishandling of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago.[1][3] Smith stated that evidence showed Trump "willfully broke the law," including engaging in a "criminal scheme to overturn the results and prevent the lawful transfer of power," and that he knew his election fraud claims were false while seeking ways to stay in power.[1][3] He emphasized Trump's illegal retention of classified documents and repeated obstruction attempts, insisting grand juries in two districts confirmed the charges beyond reasonable doubt.[1]

Republicans on the House panel grilled Smith on technicalities, accusing him of weaponizing the Justice Department against Trump and probing his investigative tactics.[2][3] The hearing grew tense, with Jan. 6 Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone confronting lawmakers and nearly clashing physically with a defendant advocate; Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder whose sentence Trump commuted, attended seeking "true transparency."[3] Democrats praised Smith as a sober public servant, while Rep. Joe Neguse called the proceedings "theater" to rewrite Jan. 6 history.[3]

Trump, traveling in Europe, reacted furiously on Truth Social, labeling Smith a "deranged animal" guilty of "large scale perjury" and urging Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate him and his mostly Republican witnesses, demanding they pay a "big price."[1][2][3] Smith anticipated this, telling lawmakers he expects Trump's Justice Department to pursue charges against him "because they have been ordered to by the president."[1][3] Trump also tied the clash to broader vows of revenge against perceived enemies.[1]

Listeners tuning in heard Smith warn that the rule of law is "not self-executing" and erodes without accountability, suggesting failure to hold Trump responsible risks future attacks.[3] While Trump's supporters view the probes as Democratic hoaxes, Smith's measured testimony puts the evidence on record amid Trump's return to power and open threats.[1] The exchange underscores deepening divides over Jan. 6 responsibility, with Trump positioning himself as avenger-in-chief.[2][3] (Word count: 348)

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