New Jersey Federal Judges Appoint New U.S. Attorney as Trump's Choice Faces Removal

Strategic Insights -

As the 120-day limit for interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba's appointment was set to expire, federal judges in New Jersey took an unusual step, appointing Desiree Leigh Grace to the role. Habba, who previously represented President Donald Trump and served as a campaign spokesperson, had been facing opposition from New Jersey's senators and criticism from Democratic Sens. Andy Kim and Cory Booker, who accused her of pursuing frivolous and politically motivated prosecutions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Desiree Leigh Grace, a longtime prosecutor, was appointed U.S. attorney for New Jersey by federal judges in a brief standing order.
  • Grace's appointment was effective as of Tuesday, or "upon the expiration of 120 days after appointment by the Attorney General" of the interim U.S. attorney, whichever is later.
  • Alina Habba, Trump's choice for U.S. attorney, had been facing opposition from New Jersey's senators and criticism from Democratic Sens. Andy Kim and Cory Booker.
  • Habba was accused of pursuing frivolous and politically motivated prosecutions, and her work in the role drew opposition from New Jersey's senators.
  • The Senate did not act on Habba's formal nomination, and her temporary appointment was set to expire on Friday.
  • Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that Habba's term was supposed to last until Friday and that federal judges were "trying to force out" Habba from the position.
  • New Jersey's U.S. Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the sudden change in leadership.

Statistics:

  • 120 days: The maximum amount of time an interim U.S. attorney can stay in the role without Senate confirmation or a term extension.
  • 4 years: The proposed term length for Alina Habba, if she were confirmed as U.S. attorney in a full term.
  • 1: The amount of time Desiree Leigh Grace has been a longtime prosecutor in New Jersey.

Sources:

  • The Philadelphia Inquirer (July 22)
  • The New York Times (July 2023)
  • Tribune Content Agency, LLC