Trump Ally Alina Habba Steps Down as New Jersey’s Federal Prosecutor, Vows to Continue Fight
President Donald Trump’s former lawyer, Alina Habba, resigned as acting U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey. This ends a high-profile judicial and political battle. Habba resigned after the Third Circuit ruled her tenure unlawful. This confused the state’s federal courts for months.
Habba claimed on social media that the court’s decision was politically motivated but that she resigned to “protect the stability and integrity” of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. She stressed that resignation is not a compromise. “Don’t confuse compliance with surrender,” Habba said. He added that the Justice Department will appeal the ruling. She said that the decision will not weaken her or the Department of Justice.
Habba, 41, was appointed New Jersey’s interim U.S. attorney in March, a crucial position that enforces criminal and civil law. Federal justices appointed one of her deputies when her temporary term ended in July. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi sacked the new person, citing “politically minded judges” as obstacles. A lower court later found Habba had been serving illegally, causing a legal deadlock and practical chaos in New Jersey’s federal courts.
Recent Third Circuit rulings removed Habba from office. The court ruled that New Jerseyans and U.S. Attorneys needed certainty and stability. Habba will remain a senior advisor to Attorney General Pam Bondi at the Justice Department despite this setback. Three senior office staff will temporarily take over her duties.
Habba’s departure drew political reactions from all sides. Trump supporters praised her tenacity and dedication to the administration’s goals, notably her promises to battle in court nationwide. Habba said, “My fight will now stretch across the country,” indicating she will continue to fight legal and political battles after leaving New Jersey.
But several critics think her resignation was long overdue. Representative Frank Pallone was delighted Habba was going. Her controversial nomination hampered New Jersey’s federal courts, and he argued politics shouldn’t be in the legal system.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said the Department of Justice will review the appeals court judgment. She believes the decision can be altered. She added that Habba may return to the U.S. Attorney’s Office if her legal issues are resolved.
Habba’s selection controversy highlighted the delicate balance between political influence and federal judicial power in key legal positions. The retirement ends some ambiguity in New Jersey’s federal courts, but the case’s legal and political ramifications will undoubtedly remain of importance.
Sources:
US Justice Department statements
USCAF Third Circuit decisions
Attorney General Pam Bondi and Alina Habba have spoken up.
Rep. Frank Pallone stated
