Smith’s Team Allegedly Bypassed Filter in Reviewing Congress Texts

Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team obtained and reviewed text messages from 44 members of Congress as part of the Trump-related investigations, bypassing a DOJ-established Filter Team meant to screen for privileged material. Critics say the move violated investigative protocols and constitutional protections, including the Speech or Debate Clause. The records released by Grassley and Johnson show the team accessed texts from lawmakers across parties during Trump’s first term after NARA provided messages from White House personnel; the review began within minutes of receipt, prior to the Filter Team’s evaluation. Background references Projects Coconut and Cranberry frame the broader investigations. The list includes both senators and representatives, drawing bipartisan scrutiny and calls for accountability.