Federal judiciary

Former special counsel Jack Smith is testifying publicly before the Senate Judiciary Committee, in a hearing pushed by Republicans examining the investigations into Donald Trump, including the federal cases over classified documents and election interference. The testimony puts Smith's conduct and decision-making under scrutiny and is drawing close attention from both parties.

Senators are preparing for a confrontation with Jack Smith at the Senate Judiciary Committee, according to Roll Call. Smith, the former special counsel who led federal investigations into Donald Trump, is expected to face pointed questioning from lawmakers. The hearing signals continued partisan tension over the prosecutions and their handling of cases involving the president.

The US judiciary is preparing a pilot programme for courthouse management, according to Facilities Dive. Details of the pilot's scope, timeline and participating courthouses were not provided in the initial report. The initiative suggests the federal court system is testing new approaches to how its facilities are administered.

A 67-year-old Texas man has been sentenced for mailing threatening letters to federal judges, according to the San Antonio Express-News. The case adds to ongoing concerns about threats and intimidation directed at members of the judiciary in the United States, which have drawn increased attention from law enforcement and court officials in recent years.