Trump Appoints Jeanine Pirro as Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C.
Former President Donald Trump has selected Judge Jeanine Pirro, a prominent co-host of Fox News’ "The Five," to serve as the interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Trump announced the appointment on his social media platform, Truth Social, expressing his confidence in Pirro’s qualifications and past achievements.
"I am pleased to announce that Judge Jeanine Pirro will be appointed interim United States Attorney for the District of Columbia," Trump wrote. "Jeanine is incredibly well qualified for this position, and is considered one of the Top District Attorneys in the History of the State of New York. She is in a class by herself. Congratulations Jeanine!"
Pirro’s appointment marks a significant transition in her career, as she departs from Fox News Channel after a 14-year tenure. A spokesperson for Fox News Media acknowledged Pirro’s contributions to the network and wished her well in her new role.
"Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to ‘The Five’ over the last three years and a longtime beloved host across FOX News Media who contributed greatly to our success throughout her 14-year tenure. We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington," the spokesperson stated.
Fox News Channel is expected to rotate various Fox News personalities in Pirro’s seat on "The Five" until a permanent co-host is selected.
Pirro’s Extensive Legal Background
Pirro brings a wealth of legal experience to the role of U.S. Attorney. She served as both an assistant district attorney and district attorney in Westchester County, New York, and she broke ground as the first woman to serve as a judge in Westchester County Court.
Prior to joining Fox News Channel in 2006, Pirro established herself as a respected legal professional. Her expertise led to hosting "Justice with Judge Jeanine" for 11 years before her co-hosting role on "The Five," a program that has garnered significant viewership as the most-watched show on cable news.
Trump Reassigns Ed Martin to the Department of Justice
In a related development, Trump also announced the reassignment of Ed Martin, the previous interim U.S. Attorney in D.C., to the Department of Justice. Martin will now serve as the Director of the Weaponization Working Group, Associate Deputy Attorney General, and Pardon Attorney.
"In these highly important roles, Ed will make sure we finally investigate the Weaponization of our Government under the Biden Regime, and provide much needed Justice for its victims. Congratulations Ed!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Martin’s Nomination Pulled Amid Resistance
Trump’s decision to replace Martin as U.S. Attorney for D.C. followed resistance on Capitol Hill regarding his nomination. Trump acknowledged that Martin lacked the necessary support for confirmation.
"He wasn’t getting the support from people that I thought," Trump told reporters at the White House. "You know, he’s done a very good job. Crime is down 25% in DC during this period of time… I can only lift that little phone so many times of the day. But we have somebody else."
The decision to replace Martin came ahead of a May 20 deadline to confirm the former defense attorney, who had been involved in "Stop the Steal" efforts.
Senate Confirmation Deadlines
According to Department of Justice guidelines, if the Senate fails to confirm a U.S. attorney nominee within 120 days, federal district court judges may select an interim U.S. attorney. This procedural aspect likely influenced the timing of Trump’s decision.
Pirro’s appointment is sure to draw scrutiny given her media profile and Trump’s history. The Justice Department is likely to be at the forefront of many debates given the number of high profile cases that are on the docket.
