Jack Smith's Departure: Justice Department at Crossroads Over Trump Report

Special counsel Jack Smith has stepped down from the Justice Department after submitting his report involving two major criminal investigations on Donald Trump. Legal debates continue over publicizing the report amid appeals and defense arguments, while the Justice Department pressures for its release.

In a significant turn of events, Special Counsel Jack Smith has resigned from the Justice Department following the submission of his investigation on President-elect Donald Trump. This move comes as legal disputes emerge about how much of the report should be unveiled in the near future.

The Justice Department confirmed Smith's resignation through a court filing on Saturday. He left his position just ten days before Trump's inauguration. A two-volume report had been compiled regarding Trump's alleged 2020 election interference and classified document hoarding, sparking heated debate over its potential public release.

The Justice Department seeks to uphold a custom of releasing special counsel reports. However, rulings by Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon have delayed its publication, particularly affecting co-defendants involved in related cases. Legal teams argue over Cannon's injunction, casting a shadow over the final outcome as appeals persist.

(With inputs from agencies.)