Pence subpoenaed by special counsel leading Trump investigations
NBCNov 25, 2022
The Facts
Former Vice President Mike Pence has reportedly been subpoenaed by Jack Smith, the special counsel overseeing a criminal investigation into former Pres. Trump’s attempts to overturn his loss in the 2020 presidential election. Smith is also overseeing the investigation into Trump’s handling of classified documents.
As the two-years-long Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation continues, Smith’s office is seeking documents and testimony from Pence about his interactions with Trump before and during the day of the Jan 6. Capitol riots.
The Spin
Democratic narrative
Few people can bring the perspective about the Capitol riots that Pence can, considering he was both pressured by Trump to not certify the votes and hunted down by the rioters. The former VP has already shared his story and opinions in public appearances, so giving an honest account to law enforcement shouldn’t be an issue. He should ignore any executive privilege claims and do what’s best for America.
Pro-Trump narrative
Pence should take his cue from Trump, who has pointed out that Smith is a politically-motivated prosecutor who is running an illegitimate investigation. Smith has botched prosecutions in the past — both domestically and overseas — and there’s no way anyone, let alone the former vice president, should tell Smith anything.
