Jeanine Pirro Named Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., Sparking Public Debate

Washington, D.C. — Former judge and TV personality Jeanine Pirro has been appointed interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, a high-profile role that’s already generating major buzz in legal and media circles.

The appointment was announced by former President Donald Trump on his social media platform. In the post, Trump praised Pirro for her strong legal background and past achievements. Pirro, widely known for co-hosting The Five on Fox News, previously served as a judge and district attorney in Westchester County, New York. Trump called her “incredibly well qualified” and “in a class by herself,” highlighting her reputation as one of the top legal minds to have held public office in New York.

Fox News confirmed Pirro’s departure and issued a statement thanking her for her 14 years at the network. “Jeanine Pirro has been a wonderful addition to The Five over the last three years and a longtime beloved host across Fox News Media. We wish her all the best in her new role in Washington,” said a network spokesperson.

Pirro’s appointment follows delays in confirming the previous interim nominee, Ed Martin. Martin’s nomination stalled after facing pushback from the Senate Judiciary Committee, particularly from Republican Senator Thom Tillis. Tillis expressed concerns over Martin’s stance on the January 6 Capitol riot, saying, “While I appreciate some of his views, especially on possible over-prosecution, I can’t support his nomination.”

Tillis added that while Martin raised legitimate legal points, the role of U.S. Attorney in D.C.—given its significance in cases tied to January 6—demands exceptional impartiality and judgment.

Senator Dick Durbin, a senior Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, later confirmed that Martin’s nomination would not move forward. Without a full committee vote or completed background check, Durbin said, “the process has essentially stalled.” Martin will remain in the role until late May, but the district court is expected to name a new interim replacement once his term ends.

Pirro’s surprise appointment has drawn both praise and criticism. The U.S. Attorney position in Washington, D.C., is among the most visible and politically sensitive prosecutorial jobs in the country. It involves handling federal crimes, public corruption, and cases with national political implications.

While Pirro has a strong legal background, her years as a TV commentator known for outspoken political views have raised concerns among critics. Some worry her past media presence could cast doubt on the impartiality of her legal decisions.

Supporters, however, point to her deep legal experience and her tough-on-crime track record. As a district attorney, Pirro led major criminal prosecutions and was known for her law-and-order approach. Long before her TV career, she built her resume in public service and legal advocacy.

Since the interim U.S. Attorney role does not require Senate confirmation, Pirro can begin serving immediately. A permanent replacement, however, would still need to go through the full nomination and confirmation process.

For now, Jeanine Pirro is stepping into one of the nation’s most prominent legal roles. Both the legal community and the media will be watching closely to see how she navigates this next chapter in her public service career.