Amna Nawaz
Amna Nawaz
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WATCH: Jack Smith says Biden administration never directed him to target political opponents

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January 22, 2026

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Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif., questioned former special counsel Jack Smith in a committee hearing Thursday about whether former President Joe Biden or anyone in his administration directed Smith to use the prosecutor’s office for Biden’s political gain.

Lieu asked Smith whether the administration asked him to seek retribution against opponents, arrest or punish President Donald Trump, or prosecute any political appointees. Smith responded no to all Lieu’s questions.

“Did President Biden or anyone else in the Biden White House ever threaten to fire you based on any action you took or did not take?” Lieu asked. Smith again responded no.

The hearing is focused on Smith’s investigations into President Donald Trump’s mishandling of classified documents and role in the Jan. 6 attack. It’s also an opportunity for the career prosecutor to publicly offer his inside perspective on the investigations, which both led to unprecedented indictments. Both were scuttled once it was clear that Trump would return to the Oval Office; Department of Justice policy prevents prosecution of a sitting president.

Republicans and the president have accused Smith of pursuing a politically motivated case against the president. Trump has denied wrongdoing while attacking Smith, calling him a "criminal" who ought to be investigated and "put in prison."

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Guests & Subjects Covered

WATCHRep Ted Lieu D-CalifJack SmithPresident Joe BidenPresident Donald TrumpDid President BidenBiden White HousePresident Donald Trumps

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WATCH: Jack Smith says Biden administration never directed him to target political opponents · Amna Nawaz · Sentinel