Trump Appoints Jeanine Pirro as Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., Sparking Political Uproar

A Controversial Choice: Trump Names TV Host Jeanine Pirro as Interim D.C. Attorney, Prompting Sharp Reactions from Both Sides of the Aisle

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has selected Jeanine Pirro, a longtime supporter and Fox News personality, to serve as the interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. The decision comes after his initial nominee was withdrawn due to insufficient backing from Republican senators.

At 73, Pirro brings a background as a judge and district attorney from Westchester County, New York. She is also widely recognized for her appearances on Fox News, especially on the panel show The Five. While her media prominence is well-known, many critics have questioned her legal qualifications for this key role. Trump defended his pick on Truth Social, describing Pirro as a fierce advocate for crime victims.

This move aligns with Trump’s trend of appointing media figures loyal to him to federal roles. Pirro becomes the second Fox News host to land a prominent government position, following Pete Hegseth’s appointment as Secretary of Defense.

Pirro attracted controversy after the 2020 presidential election for spreading false information about voting technology companies, which played a role in a $787 million settlement between Fox News and one of those firms. Her current position does not require immediate Senate approval, although it remains unclear if she will eventually be nominated for the role permanently.

Democrats quickly voiced their objections. California Representative Jimmy Gomez sarcastically questioned which Fox host might be next in line for a federal post. Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee denounced Pirro as an unfit media personality who prioritizes loyalty to Trump over justice.

In contrast, Republican figures expressed enthusiasm. Senator Lindsey Graham praised the appointment, calling it a “grand slam” and asserting that Pirro is ideally suited for the job.

Pirro takes over from Ed Martin, a former right-wing podcaster appointed earlier this year. Martin’s removal followed criticism from Senator Thom Tillis, who opposed his permanent confirmation due to Martin’s dismissive stance on the January 6 Capitol riot and his firing of prosecutors handling related cases.

Despite being replaced, Martin will stay within the Department of Justice. Trump stated that Martin will now head a new “weaponization working group,” tasked with examining the conduct of officials who investigated him.

Since returning to office, Trump has taken a series of actions in support of individuals involved in the Capitol attack, including issuing pardons and halting several prosecutions related to the events of January 6, 2021.

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