Jack Smith To SCOTUS: Yes, There Absolutely Is A Reason To Rush Trump’s Case

The special counsel argued that the nation deserves resolution as soon as possible on the criminal charges against Trump for his Jan. 6, 2021, coup attempt.

WASHINGTON — Responding to Donald Trump’s claim to the Supreme Court that there was no reason to rush the proceedings in the Jan. 6 criminal case against him, special counsel Jack Smith on Thursday told the high court: Oh, yes, there is — the former president’s unprecedented attempt to remain in power despite losing his election.

“The charges here are of the utmost gravity. This case involves ― for the first time in our nation’s history ― criminal charges against a former president based on his actions while in office,” Smith wrote in a 14-page filing. “And not just any actions: alleged acts to perpetuate himself in power by frustrating the constitutionally prescribed process for certifying the lawful winner of an election. The nation has a compelling interest in a decision on respondent’s claim of immunity from these charges ― and if they are to be tried, a resolution by conviction or acquittal, without undue delay.”

Trump’s lawyers on Wednesday had argued that there was reason to speed up the appeals process because a question of this seriousness deserves a full and lengthy consideration. They then repeated claims that had been rejected by trial court Judge Tanya Chutkan that Trump’s attempts to overturn his election loss, including his actions leading up to and on Jan. 6, 2021, were part of his official duties.

Smith on Thursday rejected that argument.

“He maintains that the court should wait for the appellate process to unfold below so that this court has the benefit of the court of appeals’ decision,” Smith wrote, referring to Trump. “That suggestion is misguided. The public interest in a prompt resolution of this case favors an immediate, definitive decision by this court.”