Staff Reports
Special counsel Jack Smith is basking in the glow of a cozy new arrangement as he tidies up his desk for an exit from the federal government. With President Trump not exactly inclined to keep him around, Smith received a whopping $140,000 in complimentary legal services from Covington & Burling, a law firm dripping with connections to the Obama administration. One can almost hear the echoes of chuckling Democrats as they celebrate their well-coordinated legal assault on Trump.
While Smith has been busy investigating Trump for alleged election interference and mishandling classified documents—both of which have conveniently fizzled out—he managed to file a disclosure form noting the generous gifts of legal help. It seems fitting that a man who sought to take down a former president would be propped up by top-tier attorneys who have a vested interest in the machinations of the Department of Justice. Sweetheart deals and questionable ethics? Just another Tuesday in Washington, D.C.
In a delightful twist, Ed Martin, a U.S. Attorney in D.C., tossed some sarcasm into the mix, declaring that Smith and Covington should “save your receipts.” It’s a pretty telling sentiment when officials feel compelled to remind each other about the importance of accounting for “gifts,” especially in a climate where accountability is as rare as a snowstorm in July. Replies on social media range from disbelief to indignation, highlighting a shared concern over just how far this whole soap opera can go.
Backing up Smith’s sleight of hand is the Biden-era Justice Department, which appears to be playing along splendidly. Under the guise of rules allowing such indulgences related to “current or past official positions,” they’ve greenlit Smith’s thrilling pro bono adventure. Of course, this raises eyebrows among careful observers—after all, could it really be all on the up-and-up when the agency must approve such assistance? The loopholes practically beg for someone to investigate whether there’s more dynamic action afoot here than a buddy-buddy legal strategy.
Jack Smith's $140,000 'Gift' Raises Eyebrows – US Attorney Warns 'Save Your Receipts': We’ll be in touch soon,” US Attorney Ed Martin said. https://t.co/ewDqBZJZpr pic.twitter.com/Hq1qwlaBHn
— The Western Journal (@WestJournalism) February 18, 2025
Critics are not letting this go unnoticed. Attorney General Pam Bondi has voiced her desire to probe the alleged weaponization of power orchestrated by Smith and his team, who reportedly burned through over $50 million pursuing a vendetta against Trump. Federalist CEO Sean Davis weighed in as well, questioning the legality of a law firm affiliated with influential past DOJ officials showering Smith with $140,000 in legal goodies. One doesn’t need a law degree to see the potential conflicts of interest in such arrangements.
In a capital full of bureaucratic shenanigans, it’s easy to say that nothing is truly random. So, it’s no surprise that Covington—which boasts a roster of politicians, including the likes of Eric Holder—has Smith’s back amidst these chaotic proceedings. It’s far too convenient to dismiss it all as mere chance, and observers remain vigilant, anticipating the drama that will inevitably unfold as investigations loom larger. Stay tuned; this legal circus promises plenty of twists, turns, and maybe a few pratfalls on the way.
