Trenton, NJ – March 24, 2025 – President Donald J. Trump announced today the appointment of Alina Habba, Esq., as the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, effective immediately. Habba, a longtime legal counsel to Trump, replaces John Giordano, who has served in the role since December 2024. Giordano, in turn, has been nominated as the new U.S. Ambassador to Namibia, marking a swift transition for both figures.
In a post on X, Trump praised Habba’s loyalty and legal acumen, stating, “It is with great pleasure that I am announcing Alina Habba, Esq., who is currently serving as Counselor to the President, and has represented me for a long time, will be our interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, her Home State, effective immediately!” He highlighted her commitment to a “Fair and Just” legal system, adding that she “will fight tirelessly to secure” that for New Jerseyans.
Previously, Trump named NJ Assemblyman Doug Steinhardt. Steinhardt withdrew his name several days later.
“I am honored to serve my home state of New Jersey as Interim U.S. Attorney and I am grateful to President Trump for entrusting me with this tremendous responsibility. Just like I did during my time as President Trump’s personal attorney, I will continue to fight for truth and justice. We will end the weaponization of justice, once and for all,” Habba said.
Habba, a New Jersey native, has been a prominent figure in Trump’s orbit, serving as one of his lead attorneys during his 2023-2024 legal battles, including the New York civil fraud case and the E. Jean Carroll defamation lawsuits. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the state, as outgoing Governor Phil Murphy pushes a series of tax hikes—on alcohol, firearms, and high-value homes—before his term ends in January 2026. Habba’s role as U.S. Attorney will thrust her into the heart of federal law enforcement in New Jersey, overseeing cases ranging from public corruption to organized crime.
Meanwhile, John Giordano’s nomination as Ambassador to Namibia signals a new chapter for the career prosecutor. “John Giordano, who has done a terrific job as the interim U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, will now be nominated as the new Ambassador to Namibia!” Trump wrote. Giordano, who took the interim post after the resignation of Philip Sellinger in late 2024, has been lauded for his steady leadership during a transitional period.
The appointments come amid a flurry of policy debates in New Jersey. Murphy’s proposed budget, which includes a 10% alcohol tax increase, new taxes on guns and ammo, and a “mansion tax” hike on homes over $1 million, has sparked backlash from residents and lawmakers alike. Some speculate Habba’s appointment could signal a more aggressive federal stance on issues like Second Amendment rights, given her alignment with Trump’s agenda and the state’s recent ammo tax proposal.
Both appointments await Senate confirmation, though Habba’s interim role takes effect immediately. As New Jersey navigates a contentious budget season and a shifting political landscape, all eyes will be on Habba to see how she wields her new authority—and whether she’ll weigh in on the state’s brewing tax battles. For now, Trump’s message is clear: “Congratulations to Alina and John!”