Trump’s handpicked u.s. attorney embroiled in juror misconduct scandal

The appointment of Darin Smith, a Wyoming attorney with a shockingly thin prosecutorial resume – and a penchant for extracurricular activities – has taken a dramatic and deeply troubling turn. The Justice Department is now facing serious questions about its vetting process after allegations surfaced that Smith attempted to influence a grand jury.

A justice department oversight nightmare

Smith, tapped by President Trump as U.S. Attorney for Wyoming, a state with fewer residents than California, has already faced criticism for his lack of experience and a bizarre episode involving federal judges using him as a handball court partner. Now, a juror’s affidavit reveals a far more alarming pattern of behavior. According to the affidavit, Smith explicitly told prospective grand jurors that they would hear cases involving ‘bad guys’ who ‘did what you are going to hear about’ – all before a judge and court record were established.

The juror’s account further details Smith’s unsettling comments about the case’s likely outcome, suggesting an eagerness for a swift indictment. He reportedly told the panel that the evidence presented would ‘not take long’ to warrant an accusation. The U.S. Attorney’s office, frustratingly, has offered no immediate challenge to these claims – a decision that’s fueling further scrutiny.

Beyond the grand jury: business cards and ‘slam dunks’

But the concerns extend beyond the grand jury proceedings. A subsequent review revealed that Smith was observed handing out business cards and actively soliciting contact information from grand jury members during a break. He also reportedly described the cases facing the grand jury as ‘slam dunks,’ a term that underscores his apparent confidence – and potentially, a disregard for the integrity of the process.

A damning blow and a bizarre nomination

This latest revelation represents a significant setback for Smith’s tenure. Democratic lawmakers and critics have consistently questioned his qualifications and highlighted his attendance at the January 6th insurrection, a fact that further complicates his position. The Senate’s swift confirmation, despite these concerns, is a testament to the current political climate. And considering the fact that Wyoming now boasts the same number of senators as California – a state with a vastly larger population – the optics are, to put it mildly, disastrous. The fact remains that ‘all the best people’ apparently don’t always play by the rules.

Frankly, I wouldn’t trust this man to preside over a night court, let alone a federal prosecution. It's a chilling reminder of the lengths to which some will go to secure a position, regardless of the ethical implications.