A judge from a New Jersey US District Court recently denied President Trump’s attempt to keep Alina Haba in her position as the state’s leading federal prosecutor, just as her interim term was about to end.
In accordance with a standing order, the court selected Desiree Leigh Grace to take over the role shortly before Haba’s 120-day temporary appointment expired. The new appointment officially started on Tuesday.
Haba, who previously acted as Trump’s personal attorney, began her term in March. She became known for her assertive representation of the president, notably during his business fraud case and in the defamation and sexual assault suit filed by columnist E. Jean Carroll.
During her time in office, Haba faced scrutiny following the arrests and charges against Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka and Rep. Ramonica McQuiver due to issues at a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility.
While the trespassing charges against Baraka were dismissed, McQuiver is still contesting criminal charges, having not yet pleaded guilty to three counts related to “assault, resistance, obstruction, and interference” with federal officials.
A federal judge, upon dismissing Baraka’s case, remarked that the arrests represented a “clear misstep” and a “hasty” approach by the office, which led to the withdrawal of claims deemed “embarrassing” by the government. Baraka has since filed a lawsuit against Haba for damages stemming from his arrest.
Despite these controversies, officials from the Justice Department have expressed support for Haba’s leadership capabilities.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated on social media that Haba has provided “steady leadership and sound judgment” during her interim term and emphasized that he has “complete confidence” in her abilities.
“District judges should utilize their authority to properly support her,” he added.
Haba, a first-generation American from New Jersey, has also contributed to Trump’s legal matters, including the defamation case from former “Apprentice” contestant Summer Zelbos. Most recently, she served as a presidential counselor at the White House, having previously acted as a legal spokesperson for Trump and a senior adviser during his campaign.
