Alina Habba, former personal attorney to President Donald Trump, announced her resignation as the U.S. attorney for New Jersey on Monday. This decision comes in light of a recent ruling by a federal appeals court that deemed her appointment unlawful.
In a statement shared on social media, Habba lambasted the court's decision as politically motivated but expressed her intention to resign in order to protect the stability and integrity of her office.
Do not mistake compliance for surrender, she asserted, adding that the Justice Department would continue to pursue an appeal regarding her appointment. She confirmed that she will remain with the Justice Department as a senior advisor to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Appointed in March to a temporary acting role, Habba had previous experience representing Trump legally during his presidency. However, she faced significant obstacles, including opposition from New Jersey's Democratic senators who indicated they would block her confirmation in the Senate.
The legal challenges intensified after a lower-court ruling questioned the legality of her service, resulting in extended delays and confusion within New Jersey's federal court system. An appeals court a few weeks prior highlighted the need for clarity and stability within the U.S. Attorney's office.
Habba's resignation is part of a broader trend where other Trump administration appointees are also facing confirmation and appointment challenges. The implications of Habba stepping down are yet to be seen, particularly concerning other U.S. attorneys whose appointments are under scrutiny.
