Office of Special Counsel investigates ex-Trump prosecutor Jack Smith

The U.S. Office of Special Counsel has opened an investigation into former Special Counsel Jack Smith to determine if he violated the Hatch Act through his actions related to investigations into President Trump, following a referral from Senator Tom Cotton. The OSC, which enforces the Hatch Act, is separate from the DOJ and cannot prosecute criminal matters, but may refer findings to the DOJ. The investigation occurs amid broader scrutiny of the administration's handling of other political issues.