New Jersey prosecutors announced on Wednesday their selection of U.S. lawyer Alina Haba to replace President Trump’s election, even after she was dismissed the previous day by leading Department of Justice (DOJ) officials.
Prosecutor Digily Grace expressed on LinkedIn that she was appointed “on merit” and is prepared to start her role “according to the law.”
In her detailed post, she noted, “I served under both Republican and Democrat administrations. I’ve been promoted four times over the last five years, including just four months before this administration took office. While politics has shifted resources and priorities, my work and mission have remained constant.”
Grace’s commitment to adhere to the judge’s orders adds to the tension with senior Justice Department officials in Washington.
The interim term for Haba, a former personal attorney for Trump, is set to expire this week. Her time in the role raised some eyebrows, especially after two Democratic civil servants faced criminal charges linked to their actions at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility under her leadership.
On Tuesday, the U.S. District Court in New Jersey issued a standing order that appointed Grace indefinitely following a private vote on Monday, rejecting the continuation of Haba’s position.
Attorney General Pam Bondy responded to the court’s ruling by terminating Grace’s employment.
Bondy stated, “This Department of Justice does not tolerate fraudulent judges, especially when it undermines the powers outlined in Article II.” However, it’s uncertain whether she has the authority to dismiss Grace, as legal experts have indicated that only judges have the power to remove U.S. attorneys.
In what seemed like a farewell message, Grace’s post conveyed her dedication, saying, “It has been a lifelong honor to represent the United States and serve the people of New Jersey for nearly nine years. This mission is the most important.”
She added, “I feel fortunate to be driven by a true desire to do the right thing for right reasons every day.”
