Capitol riot 'does not happen' without Trump, Jack Smith told Congress
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 2:15 am
Smith: Trump "Most Responsible" for Capitol Riot, Documents Show
Former special counsel Jack Smith testified before the House Judiciary Committee earlier this month, asserting that the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol would not have occurred without Donald Trump. The committee released the transcript and video of Smith's closed-door deposition on Wednesday, offering insight into the investigations of the President.
During the deposition, Smith defended the basis for indictments against Trump, rejecting claims that the investigations were politically motivated. He emphasized that Trump was the "most culpable and most responsible person" in the conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election results. Smith stated that the actions of other individuals involved were undertaken for Trump's benefit.
Smith's testimony highlighted the strength of the evidence gathered, including testimony from Trump allies and supporters who cooperated with the investigation. He cited instances where Republicans, including a former congressman, acknowledged the illegality of the efforts to overturn the election. Smith also pointed to Trump's role in inciting the riot, stating that Trump "caused it and that he exploited it and that it was foreseeable to him." Smith noted that Trump made false statements, invited supporters to the Capitol, and then refused to stop the violence.
The deposition also addressed the Smith team's acquisition of phone records of Republican lawmakers who communicated with Trump on January 6. Smith defended the legality of this action, suggesting that any outrage should be directed at Trump, who directed his co-conspirators to contact these individuals. Smith cited an interview with Mark Meadows, Trump's former chief of staff, regarding communications with Rep. Jim Jordan on the afternoon of the riot.
Smith also discussed the investigation into Cassidy Hutchinson's claim that Trump attempted to grab the steering wheel of the presidential SUV. Smith stated that the Secret Service officer in the car confirmed Trump's anger and desire to go to the Capitol, but the officer's account differed from Hutchinson's secondhand account.
BNN's Perspective:
While the evidence presented by Smith appears compelling, it's crucial to acknowledge the deeply divisive nature of these investigations. The focus on Trump's culpability is understandable, given the gravity of the events. However, it's equally important to ensure that any legal proceedings are conducted fairly and without political bias, allowing for a thorough and impartial examination of the facts.
Keywords: Jack Smith, Donald Trump, Capitol riot, January 6, 2020 election, House Judiciary Committee, deposition, indictments, conspiracy, Joe Biden, classified documents, Mark Meadows, Jim Jordan, Cassidy Hutchinson, Secret Service, election fraud, political motivation, legal proceedings.