Jack Smith: Trump broke laws critical to the 'safety and security of the United States'

In a rare public appearance, special counsel Jack Smith spoke to reporters about the indictment against former President Donald Trump for unlawful removal of classified information, outlining the severity of the charges and giving some indication of how the trial would go forward.

In particular, Smith stressed how the laws the former president broke are essential to keeping the nation safe.

"The men and women of the United States intelligence community and our armed forces dedicate their lives to protecting our nation and its people," said Smith.

"Our laws that protect national defense information are critical to the safety and security of the United States, and they must be enforced. Violations of those laws put our country at risk. Adherence to the rule of law is a bedrock principle of the Department of Justice, and our nation's commitment to the rule of law sets an example for the world."

"We have one set of laws in this country, and they apply to everyone," continued Smith. "Applying those laws, collecting facts, that's what determines the outcome of an investigation. Nothing more and nothing less."

Smith also promised the trial would proceed quickly — a seeming acknowledgment that a drawn-out process would run into the 2024 presidential election.

"My office will seek a speedy trial in this matter, consistent with the public interest and the rights of the accused," said Smith. "We very much look forward to presenting our case to a jury of citizens in the Southern District of Florida ... I would like to thank the dedicated public servants with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with whom my office conducted this investigation and worked tirelessly every day upholding the rule of law in our country."