Trump Appoints Fox News Host Jeanine Pirro as Acting U.S. Attorney for D.C. Amid January 6 Controversy

President Donald Trump has appointed Jeanine Pirro, a former Fox News host and judge, as the acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, replacing Edward Martin. Pirro's nomination follows the withdrawal of Martin's candidacy, which was blocked by at least one Republican senator due to concerns over his involvement with the January 6 Capitol riot.

Pirro, who has served as a judge and district attorney in New York, has been a prominent figure on Fox News, where she was involved in high-profile defamation cases. She also joined the board of a CBD company, contrasting with her predecessor Martin, who sent a threat letter to a locally licensed medical cannabis dispensary. Her appointment has sparked criticism from Democrats, including former Attorney General Eric Holder, who called her nomination 'ridiculous and potentially dangerous.' Some Democrats, like Rep. Glenn Ivey, have questioned her suitability for the role, emphasizing the need for serious courtroom skills and managerial experience. However, her selection has also been met with optimism from some Republicans, who hope she will use her prosecutorial experience to address violent crime in Washington, D.C. Sen. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, responded tersely to Pirro's selection, referencing another Fox News host's performance in the administration.

Edward Martin, a 'Stop the Steal' advocate and MAGA activist, was initially appointed by Trump on Inauguration Day 2025. Martin's tenure was marked by controversy, including the firing of prosecutors involved in January 6 cases and his public statements on social media. His nomination faced opposition, leading to his reassignment to a Justice Department task force and as a pardon attorney.