Story perspectives

Leadership Shakeup: Halligan Ousts Prosecutor Cleary in Virginia

10/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan removed Maggie Cleary from the Eastern District of Virginia, signaling a leadership shift within the Justice Department.
Cleary briefly served as the district's top prosecutor and opposed the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, a move Halligan has pursued despite lacking prosecutorial experience.
The change follows firings and resignations from prosecutors resisting Halligan's agenda.
Cleary's future role within the Justice Department remains unclear.

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Story summary

U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan removed Maggie Cleary from the Eastern District of Virginia, signaling a leadership shift within the Justice Department.
Cleary briefly served as the district's top prosecutor and opposed the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, a move Halligan has pursued despite lacking prosecutorial experience.
The change follows firings and resignations from prosecutors resisting Halligan's agenda.
Cleary's future role within the Justice Department remains unclear.