Federal Appeals Court Dismisses Trump's Controversial New Jersey Prosecutor Appointment

A federal appeals court ruled that Alina Habba, appointed by Trump's administration as acting U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, was unlawfully assigned, posing a challenge to the Justice Department's efforts to place loyalists in key positions. The court's decision, part of broader judicial scrutiny of temporary appointments, may impact ongoing federal cases.

A federal appeals court ruled Monday that Alina Habba's appointment as the acting U.S. Attorney in New Jersey during Trump's administration was unlawful, disqualifying her from overseeing cases. The unanimous decision by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals follows efforts by Trump's administration to install loyalists across U.S. Attorney offices.

The 3rd Circuit endorsed U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann's previous ruling that the federal appointments law was violated by naming Habba. Judge D. Michael Fisher highlighted the administration's difficulties in elevating Habba, suggesting political and legal obstacles to placing their desired appointees.

The ruling affects numerous active federal cases in New Jersey, pressing the Justice Department to appoint a new supervising prosecutor. The administration may appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, challenges to temporary U.S. attorney appointments continue, with similar rulings in Virginia, California, and Nevada.

(With inputs from agencies.)