Key Takeaways:

• Arizona AG Kris Mayes has requested access to Jack Smith's findings from the 2020 election subversion investigation.
• Mayes aims to use the case files to assist in prosecutions against Trump allies involved in a fake elector scheme.
• The request follows a recent court ruling that enables the DOJ to disclose Smith's report without restrictions.
• Mayes has set a deadline for the DOJ’s response, emphasizing the urgency due to Trump's impending inauguration.
• The ongoing investigation has resulted in multiple indictments related to the effort to overturn Arizona’s election results.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has formally reached out to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, requesting access to the full case file from former special counsel Jack Smith relating to the investigation into alleged efforts to subvert the 2020 presidential election results. This appeal comes as the state seeks to bolster its legal case against individuals implicated in a plot that aimed to falsely declare Donald Trump the winner of Arizona.

In her letter released to the public, Mayes indicated that despite previous denials to access Smith's materials while his investigation was ongoing, the circumstances have now changed. With Trump set to become president again, and concerns about potential obstruction of the report’s findings, Mayes stated that her office is one of the few still actively pursuing charges against notable figures involved in the case. "I have held steadfast to prosecuting the grand jury’s indictment because those who tried to subvert democracy in 2020 must be held accountable," she expressed, underscoring the importance of the requested materials from Smith.(The Hill)

Additionally, Mayes noted that she is seeking not only Smith's full findings but also any exculpatory evidence that Mark Meadows, Trump’s former chief of staff, might need. The urgency of her request is heightened by a recent decision from a federal appeals court that overturned a ruling by Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon, allowing the DOJ to disseminate the report beyond its offices, even as Trump continues to attempt to keep the findings sealed.

In her correspondence, Mayes highlighted that the situation presents a unique opportunity as her office is now managing one of the only cases making headway on state charges that stem from the 2020 election fallout. She expressed confidence that access to Smith’s report would significantly aid her office's ongoing efforts to hold accountable those involved in the fake elector scheme, which has already led to numerous indictments, including charges against high-profile Republican figures such as Rudy Giuliani.(Salon)

As the clock ticks down to Trump's inauguration, Mayes has set a deadline for the Department of Justice to respond to her request, illustrating the pressing need for clarity and access to crucial documentation prior to potential legal maneuvering that could hinder her prosecutorial efforts.

In closing, Mayes asserted that her office remains committed despite the pushback from federal levels, emphasizing the agency's obligation to pursue justice in what she describes as a critical national issue. “We won’t be cowed, we won’t be intimidated,” she stated resolutely, signifying her determination to continue the fight against voter subversion in Arizona.