DOJ Appeals Judge Ruling Blocking Habba as New Jersey U.S. Attorney

A federal judge ruled that Alina Habba is unlawfully serving as acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, citing violations of legal appointment procedures that require Senate confirmation. The Justice Department has appealed this decision, moving the case to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Habba's 120-day interim tenure expired without Senate approval, and efforts to extend her service were deemed improper by the court. After U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi fired then-acting U.S. Attorney Desiree Grace and Trump withdrew Habba's nomination, Trump appointed Habba as first assistant U.S. attorney, sparking further legal challenges. Habba has publicly criticized New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim for blocking her confirmation through the Senate's blue slip tradition, defending her record and criticizing political opposition. The dispute has disrupted federal court operations in New Jersey and raised questions about executive appointment powers and Senate oversight.