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- Federal judges in New Jersey voted to replace Alina Habba as interim U.S. Attorney after her 120-day term expired
- Career prosecutor Desiree Grace takes over immediately, marking a shift from Trump-aligned leadership
- Habba’s tenure sparked controversy, including a high-profile arrest of Newark’s mayor that was later dropped
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Essential Context
Alina Habba, a former personal lawyer for President Trump, saw her interim term as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor end abruptly after judges declined to extend her appointment. The decision came amid ongoing legal challenges and criticism of her prosecutorial decisions.
Core Players
- Alina Habba – Former Trump lawyer, interim U.S. Attorney (March-July 2025)
- Desiree Grace – Career prosecutor, new interim U.S. Attorney
- President Trump – Former president, Habba’s former client
- Ras Baraka – Newark mayor, plaintiff in defamation lawsuit against Habba
Key Numbers
- 120 days – Length of Habba’s interim term
- May 2025 – Month Habba arrested/dropped charges against Mayor Baraka
- 2025 – Year judges rejected Habba’s extension
- $250M – Estimated legal costs for Habba’s defamation case
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The Catalyst
Judges convened behind closed doors to evaluate Habba’s performance, ultimately deciding against retaining her. The move followed criticism of her handling of high-profile cases, including the controversial arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka in May 2025.
Inside Forces
Habba’s tenure was marked by political tensions. As Trump’s former lawyer, her appointment drew scrutiny, particularly after she pursued charges against Baraka that a judge later called an attempt to “satisfy public clamor.” The dropped charges led to a defamation lawsuit from the mayor.
Power Dynamics
The judges’ decision reflects broader tensions between Trump-aligned appointees and the judicial system. While Habba maintained Trump’s “full confidence,” the judges’ rejection signals resistance to political influence in prosecutorial roles.
Outside Impact
The Deputy Attorney General criticized the judges’ decision, accusing them of “acting like activists.” This response highlights growing friction between the Justice Department and judicial oversight bodies.
Future Forces
Habba’s replacement, Desiree Grace, represents a return to career prosecutors in leadership roles. This shift could influence how politically sensitive cases are handled moving forward.
Data Points
- March 28, 2025 – Habba sworn in as interim U.S. Attorney
- May 2025 – Arrest/dropped charges against Mayor Baraka
- July 22, 2025 – Judges vote to replace Habba
- July 22, 2025 – Grace assumes interim role
The judges’ decision underscores ongoing debates about political influence in federal prosecutions. While Habba’s tenure ended abruptly, the broader implications for prosecutorial independence and political appointments remain unresolved.
