Jack Smith, the special counsel appointed to oversee federal investigations into former President Donald Trump, has resigned from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). His departure follows the completion of his final report on the investigations.

Smith was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in November 2022 to lead probes into Trump's alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and his handling of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate. These investigations led to federal indictments against Trump, marking the first time a former U.S. president faced such charges.

However, both cases were dismissed following Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election. A U.S. District Judge ruled that Smith's appointment violated the Appointments Clause of the Constitution, leading to the dismissal of the classified documents case. Similarly, the election interference case faced legal challenges that resulted in its termination.

Smith's resignation comes amid concerns about the DOJ's policy against prosecuting a sitting president. With Trump's inauguration imminent, Smith sought to conclude his duties, adhering to the department's guidelines.

The final report on Trump's cases remains pending, with debates over its public release. A U.S. appeals court recently permitted the DOJ to release Smith's investigative report on Trump's 2020 election-related activities. However, the portion concerning classified documents has been withheld due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Smith's departure underscores the complexities and challenges of pursuing legal action against high-profile political figures, especially in a polarized environment. As the DOJ transitions under new leadership, the implications of these investigations continue to influence the American political landscape.