Judge Jeanine Pirro speaks after her exclusive interview with Daniel Penny on FOX Nation, in New York, December 10, 2024. Getty Images
President Donald Trump has announced that he will appoint Fox News host and former prosecutor Jeanine Pirro as the interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia. Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social.
Background on the Appointment:
This decision comes after Trump revealed that Ed Martin, the current interim U.S. attorney for D.C., would not be appointed permanently. Martin had lost support among top Republican senators. He has served as the interim prosecutor since the start of Trump’s administration, but his term will end on May 20.
Pirro’s Strong Ties to Trump:
Jeanine Pirro has been a strong supporter of Donald Trump for many years. She was a key ally during his 2016 campaign and stood by him during difficult moments, including the "Access Hollywood" tape scandal. Pirro’s background as a prosecutor in New York helped build her reputation in legal circles.
Controversial Past:
Pirro has faced significant controversies over the years. After Trump lost the 2020 election, she spread false claims about election fraud and voting machines. She was later named in a defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems, which accused Fox News of spreading false information. The network eventually settled the lawsuit for $787.5 million and admitted to broadcasting false statements.
In 2019, Pirro faced suspension from Fox News after questioning the loyalty of Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, based on her Muslim faith. This move sparked significant backlash.
Ed Martin’s Future:
Ed Martin had been a leading candidate for the permanent U.S. attorney position. However, Trump announced that Martin would not be nominated due to lack of support from Senate Republicans. Martin had been involved in promoting the "Stop the Steal" movement in 2021 and was present at the Capitol during the January 6th attack.
Trump’s Past Connections to Pirro:
Before leaving office in 2021, one of Trump’s final acts was granting a pardon to Pirro’s ex-husband, Albert Pirro. Albert Pirro had been convicted of conspiracy and tax evasion in the late 1990s for improper deductions on personal expenses. The pardon came just before Trump’s term ended.
The Next Steps:
While Martin’s term as interim prosecutor ends soon, Trump suggested that Martin could take on another role within the Department of Justice. Pirro, known for her controversial positions, will now step in to fill the position temporarily.
President Trump has chosen Jeanine Pirro as interim U.S. attorney for D.C., replacing Ed Martin, who lost Senate support. Pirro, a longtime Trump ally, is known for her past controversial views and legal career. Martin’s interim term ends soon, and he may continue at the Department of Justice in another role.
