Trump Challenges Special Counsel Appointment in Court

Former President Donald Trump has filed motions in federal court to dismiss criminal charges against him, arguing that Special Counsel Jack Smith was unlawfully appointed due to a violation of the Constitution's appointments clause, as he was not confirmed by the Senate. This argument echoes a previous successful dismissal of a classified documents case in Florida. Trump has also vowed to fire Smith if he wins the 2024 presidential election, despite the lack of presidential authority to dismiss a special counsel directly. Judge Tanya Chutkan, overseeing the election interference case, has expressed skepticism over Trump's arguments, which are based on a concurring opinion from Justice Clarence Thomas regarding presidential immunity. The legal battle continues as Smith's appointment remains under scrutiny, with Trump and his supporters arguing it is part of a political witch hunt.