Attorney General Merrick Garland has released special counsel Jack Smith’s report on the investigation into Donald Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election. The report, spanning over 130 pages, outlines Trump's alleged criminal efforts to retain power after losing the election.
The report highlights Trump's actions, including pressuring state officials, promoting a fraudulent electors plan, and exerting pressure on Vice President Mike Pence. It also covers the events of January 6, when Trump's supporters stormed the US Capitol.
Smith's report emphasizes that Trump's actions disrupted the peaceful transfer of power, a process that had operated smoothly for over 130 years. The investigation led to four charges against Trump, but the case faced setbacks, ultimately resulting in its withdrawal after Trump's reelection.
While the report does not accuse anyone other than Trump of committing a crime, it mentions ongoing investigations into potential co-conspirators. The office found evidence of unrelated crimes by one individual, leading to a referral to a US attorney's office.
Despite initial plans to release a second volume covering classified documents, Garland has decided not to make it public. A court order currently prevents the sharing of this volume outside the Department of Justice.
The release of the report comes after legal battles to prevent its publication, with efforts to delay its release ultimately unsuccessful. The report serves as the final word on the investigation into Trump's actions surrounding the 2020 election and the events of January 6.
