Trump Names Unqualified Lawyer to Prosecute Enemies
President Donald Trump has appointed Lindsey Halligan, a 36-year-old former Florida insurance lawyer with limited experience, as the new U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. The move is seen as a major escalation in Trump's efforts to politicize the Justice Department.
Halligan replaces Erik Siebert, who was pushed out by Trump on Friday after declining to prosecute his political enemies. Halligan has worked on only three federal cases, compared to Siebert's 675. However, her connections to Trump may have been a deciding factor in her appointment.
"Nice and professional, but kind of shocked when she began working for Trump," said an attorney who knew Halligan from her time in Florida. "It's not about qualifications or experience; it's about loyalty."
Halligan's background is marked by her work with Trump, representing him in three federal cases. Her previous role involved helping to rid the Smithsonian Institution of improper ideology.
The appointment has raised concerns among critics, who argue that Halligan lacks the necessary expertise and experience to lead a major prosecution office. "This is a clear example of Trump's disregard for the rule of law," said a Democratic Party spokesperson. "He's using his Justice Department as a tool for personal vendettas."
Trump's decision has also been criticized by some within the Republican Party, who see it as an overreach of executive power.
"This move undermines the independence and integrity of our justice system," said Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). "We need to ensure that our prosecutors are focused on upholding the law, not serving their own personal interests."
The appointment has sparked widespread criticism from both parties, with many calling for Halligan's removal. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing investigations and potential litigation.
Background:
Halligan was previously tasked with helping to rid the Smithsonian Institution of improper ideology. Her work with Trump in three federal cases may have contributed to her appointment as U.S. attorney.
Siebert, who was pushed out by Trump on Friday, had extensive experience, listed as an attorney on 675 federal cases.
Additional Perspectives:
A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment on Halligan's qualifications or experience. "We're focused on upholding the law and protecting the American people," they said.
Halligan has not responded to requests for comment.
The situation remains under scrutiny, with ongoing investigations and potential litigation. The appointment of Halligan as U.S. attorney is a major escalation in Trump's efforts to politicize the Justice Department.
*Reporting by Motherjones.*
