Judge Rules Alina Haba’s Appointment as U.S. Attorney is Unlawful
A federal judge recently determined that Alina Haba, a lawyer connected to former President Donald Trump, was unlawfully serving as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. This ruling came after it was revealed that Haba had been functioning in this role beyond her designated time frame.
Judge Matthew Blanc articulated that Haba’s position was problematic, explaining that after serving as an interim U.S. Attorney for 120 days, she could not legally continue in that capacity. Importantly, he stated, “I conclude that Haba cannot assume the functions and duties of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey.”
This decision arose amid opposition from two defendants facing federal drug trafficking charges who argued that Haba had no lawful authority to prosecute them. Judge Blanc expressed frustration regarding the validity of Haba’s role and noted, “Faced with the question of whether or not she is legally performing the functions and duties of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the New Jersey area, I concluded that she is not.”
When Haba’s 120-day tenure ended, the judge refused to extend it, appointing Desiree Leigh Grace instead. However, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondy later dismissed Grace, claiming the judge’s decision was politically influenced. Subsequently, Trump reverted Haba’s appointment and designated her as his first U.S. Attorney.
At that time, White House Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields stated that Trump was confident in Haba’s abilities and was looking forward to her confirmation by the Senate, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to proper representation for the people of New Jersey.
Judge Blanc criticized the command behind Haba’s continued service, asserting it was an illegal appointment. He noted, in a detailed order issued, that Haba may not participate in future prosecutions as a representative of the United States.
The ruling is currently subject to appeal, and Haba’s office has not responded to requests for comments regarding the situation.
