Story perspectives

U.S. Attorney Resigns After Court Rules Appointment Unlawful

12/8/2025

Summary

Story summary

Alina Habba, the acting U.S. attorney for New Jersey, resigned after a federal appeals court ruled her appointment unlawful.
The court found Habba's appointment violated federal vacancy laws, prompting Attorney General Pam Bondi to call the ruling untenable.
Habba will become a Senior Advisor to Attorney General Pam Bondi, overseeing U.S. attorneys.
The Department of Justice plans to appeal the ruling, asserting it will be reversed.

History

Historical Context

The Federal Vacancies Reform Act, enacted on October 21, 1998, established procedures for filling federal vacancies, revising earlier laws from 1868. The Act aimed to reduce reliance on temporary appointments, which had reached 20% of Senate-confirmed positions. The recent ruling against Alina Habba's appointment underscores ongoing tensions within the Department of Justice and could significantly impact future federal appointments and governance.

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Story summary

Alina Habba, the acting U.S. attorney for New Jersey, resigned after a federal appeals court ruled her appointment unlawful.
The court found Habba's appointment violated federal vacancy laws, prompting Attorney General Pam Bondi to call the ruling untenable.
Habba will become a Senior Advisor to Attorney General Pam Bondi, overseeing U.S. attorneys.
The Department of Justice plans to appeal the ruling, asserting it will be reversed.

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