A recently released Department of Justice (DoJ) report has revealed that former President Donald Trump would likely have been convicted of attempting to overturn the 2020 election if he had not been re-elected in 2024. The report, authored by Special Counsel Jack Smith, asserts that the evidence against Trump was strong enough to secure a conviction at trial.
In the partially released 137-page document, Smith wrote that Trump’s actions, including pressuring officials to reverse the election results and promoting false claims of fraud, constituted “unprecedented efforts to unlawfully retain power.” The report also accuses Trump of exploiting the January 6 Capitol riots and threatening his perceived opponents.
Legal Proceedings Halted by 2024 Election
The report acknowledges that Trump’s re-election, coupled with constitutional protections for sitting presidents, ultimately halted prosecution efforts. Smith stated:
“But for Mr. Trump’s election [in 2024] and imminent return to the presidency, the office assessed that the admissible evidence was sufficient to obtain and sustain a conviction at trial.”
Trump’s Response
Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump denied the allegations, calling Smith “deranged” and labeling the findings as “fake.” He also mocked the prosecutor for failing to bring the case to trial before the election, declaring that he won “in a landslide.”
Key Points from the Report
- Allegations: Trump was accused of spreading lies about election fraud, pressuring officials, and encouraging violence.
- Challenges for Investigators: The report highlights significant obstacles, including Trump’s use of social media to target witnesses and justice department employees.
- Defending the Case: Smith denied claims that the prosecution was politically motivated, stating that his decisions were independent and rooted in upholding the rule of law.
The report also sheds light on the complexities of prosecuting a former president who regains power, underscoring the influence of constitutional protections.
Next Steps
While some parts of the report remain under judicial review, additional hearings are expected to determine whether further allegations, including the mishandling of classified documents, will be publicly disclosed.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the dismissed case adds another layer to the controversial legacy of his presidency and raises questions about accountability in American politics.
