Special counsel Jack Smith speaks about the latest indictment against Trump

By
and
WNYC | Aug 1, 2023
Updated August 1, 2023 at 9:10 PM ET

For the latest updates on the latest indictment against Trump, follow NPR's live coverage.

Special counsel Jack Smith took to the podium alone on Tuesday after a federal grand jury indicted former President Donald Trump on four counts related to efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

Trump has been charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, witness tampering and conspiracy against the rights of citizens.

"The attack on our nation's Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, was an unprecedented assault on the seat of American democracy. As described in the indictment, it was fueled by lies," Smith said. "Lies by the defendant, targeted at obstructing a bedrock function of the U.S. government."

Before a room of cameras and reporters, he delivered a two-minute statement, then left without taking questions.

While the manner and forum for this speech looked nearly identical to a statement Smith delivered in June after Trump was indicted for his handling of classified documents, the tenor and tone of Tuesday's remarks contained unmissable weightiness.

Smith spoke about the "men and women of law enforcement" who defended the Capitol during the riot, calling them heroes and patriots — and "the best among us."

Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
Profile Image
Profile Image

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Rahm Emanuel Says Israel’s Path Is “Not Sustainable Politically.” Plus, the Critic Richard Brody on “The Odyssey”

A likely Democratic presidential candidate says the U.S. must end unconditional support for Israel. Emanuel explains his proposal for Middle East peace, and his position on trans rights.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Smoke-filled skies are new normal for NYC summers, experts warn

Climate change has caused wildfires in Canada to grow more frequent and more intense, which creates a viscous cycle as the blazes pump more carbon into the atmosphere.
Gothamist |

From Subpoenas to Cockroaches: Journalist Intimidation 101

Plus, a documentary about the eBay stalking scandal.
On the Media |

Join us for a live series on what it means to make New York more affordable

We’re holding community events across New York City, “In Conversation: The Affordability Series,” through the rest of the year to explore real solutions to issues affecting millions of New Yorkers.
Gothamist |
YOU ARE ONLINE