Contentious Departure: Halligan Exits Justice Department Amid Legal Turmoil

Lindsey Halligan, a Trump-aligned prosecutor, has left the U.S. Justice Department after a controversial term as U.S. Attorney for Virginia's Eastern District. A judge criticized her unlawful appointment and threatened disciplinary action. Senate Democrats had opposed her confirmation, limiting her role to a temporary appointment.

Lindsey Halligan, a prosecutor known for her close ties to former President Donald Trump, has officially exited the U.S. Justice Department. Her departure marks the end of a contentious tenure as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, a position she held on an interim basis following the Senate's refusal to confirm her.

Judge David Novak of the U.S. District Court criticized Halligan's continued claims as the top federal prosecutor in Virginia, labeling it a 'charade' and suggesting her appointment was unlawful. He indicated potential disciplinary actions against Halligan and any colleagues who perpetuated the appointment's legitimacy.

Halligan, a former personal attorney for Trump, had been involved in legal actions against Trump's perceived adversaries. Political maneuvers, including the use of the Senate's 'blue slip' tradition by Democratic Senators, prevented her confirmation, culminating in her exit from the role as her interim period expired.

(With inputs from agencies.)