House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) recommended criminal charges against former special counsel Jack Smith on Wednesday, July 23, 2026. Jordan accused Smith of making materially false statements to Congress during a deposition and failing to disclose a subpoena related to text messages obtained from the National Archives and Records Administration.

Smith, who led the criminal cases against former President Trump, had testified last year that his team only received "toll records"—which include phone numbers dialed but not the contents of calls or texts. However, the Justice Department informed lawmakers last week that Smith's team obtained text messages between Trump-era White House staffers and dozens of members of Congress through a separate subpoena.

In his referral, Jordan asserted that Smith's testimony included intentionally false statements designed to obstruct congressional oversight. He emphasized that "all individuals have an obligation to comply with a duly authorized congressional inquiry," adding, "Smith, a former public servant, is no different."

Jordan has asked Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to investigate the matter. A Justice Department spokesperson confirmed to CBS News that it has received the referral letter and "will investigate all evidence of criminal conduct."

The committee's top Democrat has denied the allegations against Smith.

Sources