Washington, D.C. — Jeanine Pirro Named Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., Sparking Legal and Political Buzz
In a surprise move that’s sending shockwaves through both legal and media circles, former judge and Fox News personality Jeanine Pirro has been appointed interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. The announcement came via former President Donald Trump’s social media platform, where he hailed Pirro as “in a class by herself” and “incredibly well qualified.”
Pirro, widely recognized for her fiery commentary on Fox News’ The Five, brings a long résumé in law enforcement, having previously served as both a judge and district attorney in Westchester County, New York. Trump emphasized her courtroom credentials and public service record, calling her “one of the sharpest legal minds to come out of New York.”
Fox News confirmed Pirro’s departure with a warm farewell. “Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to The Five and a beloved voice across Fox News Media for 14 years. We wish her the very best as she steps into this important role in Washington,” a network spokesperson said.
Her appointment follows the stalled nomination of Ed Martin, whose interim role became politically untenable amid Senate Judiciary Committee scrutiny. Republican Senator Thom Tillis voiced particular concern over Martin’s views on the January 6 Capitol riot. “Anyone who unlawfully entered the Capitol that day should face consequences, regardless of intent,” Tillis told reporters. While he acknowledged some of Martin’s legal arguments, he ultimately concluded, “I wouldn’t support his nomination.”
Senator Dick Durbin later confirmed that Martin’s candidacy had effectively been shelved due to lack of support and incomplete vetting, opening the door for a new interim pick.
That door swung wide open with Pirro’s sudden elevation—a choice that surprised many observers given the high-profile and politically sensitive nature of the D.C. post. As the chief federal prosecutor for the nation’s capital, the U.S. Attorney oversees major cases involving public corruption, federal crimes, and often, political flashpoints.
While supporters applaud Pirro’s law-and-order track record and her deep roots in public service, critics are raising red flags over her years in partisan media. They argue her outspoken style could blur the lines between legal judgment and political bias.
Still, Pirro’s legal credentials are not in question. As a district attorney, she led headline-grabbing prosecutions and championed tough criminal justice policies. Her legal education and early public service laid the groundwork long before her transition to television.
Because the role is temporary, Pirro won’t need Senate confirmation—though any permanent appointment would require the full nomination and approval process. For now, her tenure as interim U.S. Attorney marks a dramatic new chapter in a career that’s never shied away from the spotlight.
Legal experts and political analysts alike will be watching closely as Pirro steps into one of the most visible and scrutinized prosecutorial roles in the country.
