Judge Orders Halligan to Explain Title Usage
A federal judge has directed Lindsey Halligan to clarify why she labeled herself as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia in a criminal indictment, despite a prior ruling declaring her appointment unlawful. U.S. District Judge David Novak issued a three-page order requiring Halligan to submit a written explanation within seven days. The judge wants her to justify why using the title is not misleading or false and why it should remain on the indictment.
Background on Halligan’s Appointment
Halligan was appointed by former President Donald Trump as interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia after Erik Siebert resigned. However, a federal judge in November dismissed indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that Halligan lacked the authority to bring charges because her appointment was unlawful.
Novak’s order references a Nov. 24 ruling by U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie. While the decision is under appeal, it currently has no stay and is binding in court.
Trump Criticizes Senate’s Blue Slip Tradition
In December, Trump criticised Senate Majority Leader John Thune for allowing Democrats to block judicial and U.S. attorney nominees through the “blue slip” tradition. He claimed this practice prevents qualified Republicans from being confirmed and called for its termination.
Similar Case: Alina Habba
Alina Habba, another Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in New Jersey, recently stepped down after an appeals court ruled her appointment unlawful. Her departure adds to concerns about the legitimacy of Trump’s interim U.S. attorney appointments.
