Trump Appoints Jeanine Pirro as Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C., Replacing Ed Martin Amid Controversy Over 'Political Zealot' Concerns

President Donald Trump has appointed Jeanine Pirro as the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, replacing Ed Martin, whose nomination was withdrawn. Pirro, previously a Fox News host and a former judge and prosecutor, will assume the role with a significant pay cut from her multi-million dollar television salary to $195,000, highlighting her commitment to public service over financial gain.

The decision to appoint Pirro has sparked controversy and criticism. Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed concerns about Pirro's potential to act as a 'political zealot' in her prosecutorial role, suggesting she might target Trump's political adversaries. This appointment is seen by some as part of Trump's broader strategy to fulfill his campaign promise of retribution.

Ed Martin, before his departure, criticized Washington D.C.'s 'sanctuary' policies, claiming they contribute to lawlessness and endanger public safety. He highlighted recent ICE arrests in the city, though most were for administrative rather than criminal reasons. Martin's tenure was also marked by his association with controversial figures, including his defense of January 6 defendants, leading to calls from Representatives Jamie Raskin, Jerrold Nadler, and Brad Schneider for Trump to reverse any further appointments of Martin due to his ties to neo-Nazis and white nationalists. Martin's nomination was withdrawn due to opposition from Senator Thom Tillis.