President Donald Trump has made headlines once again—this time by appointing Judge Jeanine Pirro, a familiar face from Fox News’ The Five, as the interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. The announcement, made Thursday via Trump’s Truth Social account, drew plenty of attention and some immediate reactions from both sides of the aisle.
“I’m thrilled to share that Judge Jeanine Pirro will be stepping in as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia,” Trump posted. “She’s one of the sharpest district attorneys New York has ever seen—and a true standout in her profession. Congratulations, Jeanine!”
Fox News also responded to the news, praising Pirro for her contributions over the years. “Jeanine has been a key part of The Five and a valued member of the FOX News family. We’re proud of her 14-year career with us and wish her the very best in her new role,” a network spokesperson said.
Pirro’s appointment follows the stalled confirmation of Ed Martin, who had previously held the interim role. His nomination ran into trouble after Republican Senator Thom Tillis voiced concerns—mainly about Martin’s views on the January 6 Capitol breach. Tillis said he had spoken with Martin but wasn’t satisfied with his responses, particularly on whether certain individuals had been charged too harshly for their actions that day.
“I believe anyone who breached the Capitol that day should serve time—whether it’s 30 days or three years,” Tillis said. “There should be no excuse for that behavior.”
Tillis admitted Martin raised valid concerns about possible overcharging in some cases, but he stood firm: “Had he been nominated for any other district, I might have supported him—but not for D.C., where January 6 unfolded.”
With Martin’s future unclear, Senator Dick Durbin confirmed that the confirmation process has been paused. Martin will stay in his interim role until May 20 or 21, unless a district judge appoints a replacement—now confirmed to be Pirro.
Trump, however, continues to stand behind Martin, calling him “deeply committed” and essential to what he described as efforts to “restore health to America.” He even cited support from independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., urging GOP senators to rally behind Martin’s cause.
While the political debates carry on, Jeanine Pirro is set to bring her legal firepower to the nation’s capital in a role that’s bound to keep Washington buzzing.