Smartmatic says Trump's 'campaign of retribution' is driving criminal prosecution

PBS NewsHour
by Joshua Goodman, Associated Press
March 11, 2026
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1 min read

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The Bottom Line

Smartmatic claims its criminal indictment is political retaliation linked to President Trump's allegations.

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Voting technology firm Smartmatic requested a federal judge dismiss a criminal money laundering indictment. Smartmatic claims the indictment represents political retaliation linked to former President Donald Trump's unsubstantiated allegations regarding the 2020 election.

What's Being Done

Smartmatic requested a federal judge dismiss a criminal money laundering indictment against the company.

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Trump's Influence on US Politics and Foreign Policy

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence on US politics, from taunting foreign leaders and shaping primary elections to making controversial statements on immigration and foreign policy, including his stance on the ongoing Iran conflict.

Trump's Influence on US Politics and Elections

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over US politics, from taunting political rivals and making policy demands to impacting primary elections and facing legal challenges. His statements and actions are shaping ongoing debates and future electoral contests.

US Political Landscape: Trump's Influence and Key Elections

The US political scene is heavily influenced by former President Donald Trump, who continues to endorse candidates and shape party dynamics. Key primary races and special elections are underway, revealing shifts in voter sentiment and ongoing debates within both major parties.

Trump's Political Influence and 2025 Agenda

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party and national politics, actively campaigning against GOP opponents, pushing for legislative changes like the SAVE America Act, and shaping the narrative around the economy and ongoing conflicts. His administration's past actions, such as the Global Entry program restoration and DOJ policies, are also under scrutiny.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Policy

Former President Donald Trump is actively engaging in Republican primary races, notably campaigning against incumbent GOP Representative Thomas Massie in Kentucky. He is also pushing for legislative changes like the SAVE America Act, though facing resistance from within his own party.

Immigration & Border Policy

Tracking US immigration enforcement, border security operations, policy changes, legal challenges, and the human impact of immigration decisions on families, communities, and the broader American workforce.

Trump's Influence on Republican Party and Policy

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing for specific legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races, trade policy, and legislative priorities within Congress.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Legislative Agenda

Former President Trump is actively shaping the Republican legislative agenda and primary races, notably endorsing candidates and campaigning against those who oppose him, such as Rep. Thomas Massie, while pushing for the 'SAVE America Act'.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Policy

Former President Trump is actively shaping Republican primaries, particularly in Kentucky, by endorsing candidates and campaigning against incumbents. He is also exerting pressure on Congress regarding legislation and trade policy, threatening legislative blockades.

Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Election

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races and national policy debates, particularly concerning election integrity and trade.

Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence within the Republican party, endorsing candidates and criticizing opponents. His actions are shaping primary races and legislative debates, particularly concerning the 'SAVE America Act'.

Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, making endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing his legislative agenda. His actions are shaping primary races and creating tensions within the party, particularly regarding the 'SAVE America Act' and his criticism of certain GOP members.

Trump's Influence and Political Maneuvering

Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party and national politics, engaging in endorsements, criticisms, and policy demands. His actions include targeting political opponents, pushing for specific legislation like the SAVE Act, and facing accusations of 'racist hate speech' from a UN panel.

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