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 Legal experts have since weighed in on the matter. Most believe that Smith is likely to resign voluntarily, rather than face a forced dismissal.

Special Counsel Expenses: A Breakdown

Smith’s office expenses have become a significant point of interest, as funds continue to accumulate. As of March 31, 2024, known direct and indirect expenses totaled approximately $35.7 million.

Based on spending averages, the total is estimated to rise to $47.6 million by the end of September 2024, with additional reports pending.

Special Council Office expenditures are funded by 1) the Independent Council Appropriation available to fund SCO investigations. 

The Department of Justice also spent money supporting Smith's office which is not included in the Expenditure Statement. These indirect expenses almost double the direct expenses. And come directly from the DOJ. 

Indirect spending includes bodyguards for Jack Smith as well as, hours worked by DOJ agents and investigative support analysts. And any other required protective details for members of the Special Counsel.

Expenditure Summary by Periods

• November 18, 2022 – March 31, 2023

 Smith’s office incurred direct expenses of $5.4 million, covering salaries, benefits, and operational costs, while DOJ-supported indirect costs added $3.8 million. Together, the total for this period reached $9.2 million.

• April 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023

In the following six months, direct expenditures by Smith's office jumped to $7.4 million, and DOJ’s indirect support rose to $7.3 million. This brought the total expenditure to $14.6 million.

• October 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024

During this period, direct expenses stood at $6.6 million, and indirect DOJ spending reached $5.2 million. Together, this amounted to $11.8 million, pushing the cumulative total to $35.7 million by the end of March 2024.

Reports from the April to September 2024 period have not yet been released, but if spending remains consistent, expenses could reach around $47.6 million by the close of this reporting period. 

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

Newsweek filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the DOJ on January 4, 2024, to obtain a more granular breakdown of Smith’s expenditures, including employment costs, travel expenses, and other specific spending.

The DOJ responded on January 10, citing "unusual circumstances" for the delay and suggesting consultation with the federal FOIA Ombudsman for further mediation services. 

Despite nearly ten months since this request, the DOJ has not provided further information, leaving journalists and the public in the dark about Smith’s spending details.