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

Voting technology firm claims case is political retaliation tied to baseless 2020 election claims

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Voting technology firm Smartmatic is seeking to dismiss a criminal indictment for money laundering, blaming President Donald Trump and his allies for seeking its prosecution as part of a 'campaign of retribution' against those they blame for his 2020 election loss. Smartmatic says the Justice Department reversed course and decided to press charges against the company when Trump returned to the White House, prompted by his demands to prosecute his perceived enemies.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing political tensions and allegations of retaliation surrounding the 2020 presidential election, with Smartmatic claiming it is being targeted for its role in the election process. It raises questions about the independence of the Justice Department and the potential for political influence in criminal prosecutions.

The details

Smartmatic's parent company, UK-based SGO Corporation, was added to a criminal indictment last Fall previously charging several executives with paying $1 million in bribes to election officials in the Philippines. Smartmatic says it had been cooperating with the Justice Department since 2021, but the department reversed course and decided to press charges when Trump returned to the White House, prompted by his demands to prosecute his perceived enemies. Prosecutors have also accused Smartmatic of diverting revenue from a $300 million contract with Los Angeles County and secretly bribing Venezuela's longtime election chief.

  • In 2021, Smartmatic first learned of the Justice Department's investigation.
  • In the Fall of 2022, Smartmatic's parent company was added to a criminal indictment.
  • In March 2026, Smartmatic filed a motion to dismiss the criminal indictment.

The players

Smartmatic

A voting technology firm that provides voting machines and other technology to help carry out elections in 25 countries around the world.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has made baseless claims about the 2020 election being rigged.

Roger Pinate

The co-founder of Smartmatic who has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges.

Los Angeles County

The county that awarded Smartmatic a $300 million contract to help modernize its voting systems.

Nicolas Maduro

The former President of Venezuela, whose government Smartmatic accused of manipulating election results in 2017, leading the company to exit the country.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to dismiss the criminal indictment against Smartmatic.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding the 2020 election, with Smartmatic claiming it is being targeted for its role in the electoral process. It raises concerns about the potential for political influence in criminal prosecutions and the need for an independent and impartial justice system.