Washington ‘Scandal' Expert Goes To Court With JJJ

One of the people accompanying Jesse Jackson Jr. into federal court Wednesday has been dubbed Washington's ultimate fixer.

Judy Smith was the inspiration for the lead character of the TV show “Scandal,” produced by University Park, Ill., native Shonda Rhimes and starring Kerry Washington.

Smith, co-executive producer of the series, is the founder of Smith & Company, a full-service crisis management and communications firm whose clients have included Monica Lewinsky, former Idaho Sen. Larry Craig and NFL quarterback Michael Vick.

Smith most recently worked with Jill Kelley, the Tampa socialite who touched off the David Petraeus sex scandal.

Jackson pleaded guilty Wednesday to spending campaign money for his own use. He faces nearly five years in prison.

Contact Us