Jack Smith memo suggests Trump deliberately mishandled classified docs
Former Special Counsel Jack Smith attends a House Judiciary Committee to testify about his criminal investigation of U.S. President Donald Trump, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 22, 2026. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

A newly released 2023 progress memo from former Special Counsel Jack Smith revealed that investigators established a motive for Donald Trump's alleged retention of classified documents: protecting his business interests.

Although Trump's 37 felony counts were dismissed in 2024, the memo states, "Trump possessed classified documents pertinent to his business interests — establishing a motive for retaining them."

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) criticized the findings in a scathing letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, alleging that Trump stole documents so sensitive that only six government officials had access. Raskin wrote the discovery suggests Trump "may have sold out our national security to enrich himself."

The White House denied wrongdoing, stating Trump "did nothing wrong" and dismissing Raskin as lacking credibility.

Trump has repeatedly attacked Smith, calling him "deranged" and "a real sleazebag," and called for his imprisonment. The memo was shared with select congressional members.

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