On December 9, 2025, Alina Habba, the former lawyer of President Trump, announced on Monday, December 8, that she will resign from the position of acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. This decision comes after a federal appeals court ruled that she did not meet the qualifications for this role.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Habba stated, “In light of the decision by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, in order to protect the stability and integrity of the office I hold dear, I have decided to resign as U.S. Attorney for the state of New Jersey.”
However, she emphasized that resignation should not be mistaken for surrender. “This decision will not weaken the Department of Justice, nor will it weaken me,” Habba stated. “Make no mistake, you can remove this girl from New Jersey, but you cannot erase New Jersey from this girl’s heart.”
At 41 years old, Habba is a loyal supporter of President Trump and has served as his defense attorney in several cases, including civil fraud cases in New York. After Trump returned to the White House, he appointed her as a presidential advisor and in March of this year, appointed her as acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.
Following the completion of Habba’s temporary 120-day term as acting U.S. Attorney, the Trump administration sought to have her continue in the role. However, last week, a panel of three judges at the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling that the Trump administration’s series of unconventional actions violated the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, bypassing the Senate confirmation process, rendering Habba ineligible for the position.
The Trump administration insists that Habba’s appointment is lawful according to a federal law allowing the first deputy to temporarily act as U.S. Attorney.
On Monday, Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that Habba will continue to serve in the Department of Justice as a senior advisor on U.S. Attorney matters.
Bondi also mentioned that the Department of Justice will appeal the decision of the Third Circuit Court of Appeals and is confident it will be overturned.
In light of Habba’s departure, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche appointed three officials to oversee the criminal, civil, appellate, and administrative matters of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey.