Alina Habba, former U.S. Attorney for New Jersey under President Donald Trump, appears to position herself as a top contender to succeed Pam Bondi as Attorney General. She shared an Oval Office photo with Trump and Vice President JD Vance on Friday, captioning it ‘Always a pleasure.’ The post came hours after Bondi’s dismissal, marking the second cabinet change in Trump’s second term.
Bondi’s Departure Amid Scandals
Bondi faced months of controversies, including mishandling of Epstein-related files and criticism for not pursuing cases against the president’s political opponents. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche now serves as acting Attorney General, with speculation he may take the role permanently.
Leading Contenders for the Position
Among those in consideration are Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, acting U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, and Utah Senator Mike Lee.
Habba’s Turbulent Tenure in New Jersey
Trump appointed Habba as interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey in March 2025. Her 120-day term expired in June, sparking disputes over her continued service. New Jersey judges selected Desiree Grace as replacement in July, but the administration retained Habba. A federal judge deemed her extension unlawful without Senate confirmation, a decision upheld by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in November. Habba resigned in December.
Bondi later appointed her as a senior adviser overseeing U.S. attorneys, maintaining her influence within the Justice Department.
Habba’s Rise in Trump Circle
Habba gained prominence defending Trump in New York civil and criminal trials before the 2024 election. She regularly spoke to reporters outside courthouses, appeared at campaign rallies, and featured on cable news. The 42-year-old, recently divorced from businessman Gregg Reuben after six years, has two children from her prior marriage to lawyer Matthew Eyet.
