Fox News Host Returns to Legal Roots with High-Stakes Justice Department Role
In a bold personnel shift, Donald Trump has named Fox News host and former district attorney Judge Jeanine Pirro as the interim US Attorney for the District of Columbia. The appointment, announced on Truth Social, signals Trump’s ongoing commitment to placing trusted allies in key positions during his second term.
Trump called Judge Jeanine “a class by herself,” highlighting her tenure as Westchester County DA and her media role on Fox News, where she became a household name. Her appointment replaces Ed Martin, another loyalist who faced increasing political opposition.
Jeanine Pirro [John Lamparski/Stringer via Getty Images]
Judge Jeanine Pirro: From Courtroom to Cable and Back
A Prosecutor-Turned-Presenter Returns to Public Service
Judge Jeanine Pirro built her career in the courtroom, rising through the ranks to become Westchester County’s first female district attorney. Known for her no-nonsense stance on crime, she later became a judge and gained national attention through her legal expertise.
Transitioning to media, Pirro became one of Fox News’ most popular figures, hosting Justice with Judge Jeanine and co-hosting The Five. Her sharp commentary and unwavering support of Trump made her a fixture in conservative households.
Despite her TV career, Pirro never strayed far from her legal roots—and now returns to a top legal position in Washington, DC.
Replacing Ed Martin: Political Resistance and Internal Turmoil
Senate Republicans Force a Change
Ed Martin, who had served as interim US attorney since January, was removed after mounting backlash from both Democrats and moderate Republicans. His controversial stance on the January 6 Capitol riot, including firing prosecutors who handled riot-related cases, sparked concern.
Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, a crucial swing vote, opposed Martin’s permanent appointment, citing “friction” over Martin’s sympathetic view of the rioters. Tillis stated, “I have no tolerance for anyone who entered the building on January 6.”
Facing increasing pressure, Trump reassigned Martin to lead a new “Weaponization Working Group” within the DOJ. According to Trump, Martin will now focus on alleged abuses of power under the Biden administration.
Jeanine Pirro’s Political and Legal Credentials
Loyal to Trump and Tough on Crime
Pirro’s political alignment with Trump has never been in question. Throughout Trump’s presidency, she defended him vehemently—both on television and on social media. She once tweeted, “If the first 100 days of Trump tells us anything, it’s that the American people voted him in to do EXACTLY what he’s doing. Promises made and promises kept!!”
Trump also pointed to her strong track record as a prosecutor and judge, noting that she was “a powerful crusader for victims of crime.” Her legal background combined with media savvy made her an ideal pick in Trump’s eyes.
Fox News Acknowledges Her Departure
Fox News responded to the news by praising Pirro’s 14-year run at the network. “Judge Jeanine has been a longtime beloved host who contributed greatly to our success,” the network said in a statement.
Her departure from Fox leaves a noticeable gap in its lineup, particularly on The Five, one of the network’s highest-rated programs.
Legal Challenges and Controversies
Ties to Dominion Lawsuit
Pirro has been at the center of controversy in the past. After the 2020 election, she was among several Fox News personalities who promoted false claims about voter fraud. These statements became part of a major defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems.
Though Pirro was not personally liable, the network settled for over $787 million, marking one of the largest media defamation settlements in history.
Personal Connection to Trump
Pirro has a long-standing personal relationship with Trump. In one of his final acts during his first term, Trump pardoned Pirro’s ex-husband, who had been convicted of tax evasion. This act further solidified their bond and likely contributed to her current appointment.
Implications of the Appointment
A New Direction for the DOJ?
Judge Jeanine’s appointment comes at a critical time. The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia has been central in high-profile cases, including those related to the Capitol riot, ongoing investigations into political figures, and federal contract fraud probes.
Denise Cheung, a career prosecutor, resigned earlier this year after refusing to initiate an investigation into Biden-era contracts—an act that reportedly drew ire from Ed Martin. With Pirro now at the helm, observers expect a dramatic shift in how the office handles politically sensitive cases.
No Word Yet on Permanent Confirmation
Because this is an interim appointment, Pirro does not require Senate confirmation—a strategic move given recent resistance to Trump’s nominees. Trump has yet to say whether he will nominate her for the permanent role.
Some experts view this appointment as temporary but politically symbolic, signaling Trump’s intent to reinforce loyalty and ideological alignment across all branches of government.
Conclusion: Judge Jeanine Pirro Steps into the Spotlight Again
The appointment of Judge Jeanine Pirro as interim US attorney for Washington, DC, is a powerful statement from Donald Trump. It reaffirms his trust in long-time allies and his willingness to challenge norms in federal legal appointments.
Whether Pirro becomes a permanent fixture or serves a temporary but symbolic term, her presence at the helm of the nation’s most politically charged prosecutor’s office is likely to generate headlines—and controversy—for months to come.
