“Alina Habba, Former Trump Attorney, Named Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey”
President Donald Trump has appointed Alina Habba, his former personal attorney who later became a counselor at the White House, as the interim U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey. Trump expressed confidence in Habba’s abilities, stating on his social media platform that she will uphold fairness and justice for the people of New Jersey.
After the announcement, Habba spoke to reporters outside the West Wing, emphasizing her commitment to addressing corruption. While not making specific accusations, she highlighted the need to combat injustice and crime in the state, particularly in areas like Newark and Camden.
When asked about potential targets, Habba remained vague, stating that actions would be taken once she assumes the role. She avoided direct questions about pursuing politicians but acknowledged the challenges facing New Jersey.
Habba declined to comment on her appointment being temporary and brushed off questions about political aspirations in the state. She expressed eagerness to collaborate with the Department of Justice and emphasized her dedication to advancing the president’s priorities.
In a statement on social media, Habba expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as interim U.S. Attorney, pledging to uphold truth and justice. Trump also announced that Habba would replace the current interim U.S. attorney and nominated him as the ambassador to Namibia.
Habba gained prominence through her association with Trump and her legal career in New Jersey, following her graduation from law school and a clerkship with a Superior Court Judge in the state.
Alina Habba began her legal career in private practice for eight years at two different firms before establishing her own practice in 2020, specializing in civil and commercial litigation. She reportedly met Donald Trump through their membership at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. Her significant opportunity with the former president arose when she represented him in a $100 million lawsuit against the New York Times and his estranged niece, Mary L. Trump.
The lawsuit against the New York Times was ultimately dismissed, and Habba’s other cases for Trump have had mixed outcomes. While she received praise from Trump when a defamation case against him was dropped, a lawsuit she filed alleging a conspiracy to damage Trump’s reputation was dismissed, with the judge criticizing Trump’s use of the courts for political vendettas and imposing a substantial fine on both Trump and Habba.
Habba has been closely associated with Trump, acting as his legal spokesperson during his criminal indictments and appearing alongside him at his civil fraud trial in New York. Her firm has received $3.6 million from Trump’s political action committees. She has defended Trump’s actions and character, even referring to him as the most ethical American she knows during a Fox News appearance following his indictment in Florida for the illegal retention of classified documents.
When Trump appointed her as counselor to the president, he praised her dedication to justice, defending the rule of law, and advising his campaign and transition team. Trump commended her loyalty and resolve, acknowledging her support through various challenges and legal proceedings.
